Expert: Rod Powers - 9/29/2009

Question
I am currently putting an OCS package together for the Marine Corps and the Army. I'm a senior in college and will graduate in May with about a 3.3 GPA. I'm in great physical shape, my criminal record is clean, I've studied abroad (Spain, I heard they like things like this), and I work in a leadership position on my campus as a resident hall advisor. I'm taking Army ROTC classes as electives to get a feel for military culture/life, reading books to prepare myself for a life of service and just doing any and everything I can to prepare.

Sorry, I'm not trying to beat my chest, I just wanted to get everything out there. My dilemma is that I went to see a doctor about two years ago because I had an episode of minor depression. I only went once, got a prescription of Lexapro that I only filled once, and never had another problem. I've been off the meds for well over a year and am functioning normally. The diagnoses on my record says "patient feels depressed and down for the last week," so it was just an episode. I never had the intent to hurt myself or anyone and that is documented as well. However, I was honest with my doctor about my experimentation with marijuana (2-3 times) and my occasional drinking (socially) before I was of age, both of which are documented.

I know the standards for officers are high, and some of the stuff on my record would put my integrity into question, but I'm still wondering how likely a waiver would be? I really am going to have a hard time swallowing that fact that this ONE doctor visit could essentially ruin my dream of serving. This seems to be the only black spot on my resume, but I've heard it's going to be a hard one to get over. Any input or advice? Thank you!

Answer
Hi Chris,

The marijuana experimentation won't be a problem. Usually, a waiver isn't required unless an applicant has used marijuana more than 15 times in a lifetime. The underaged drinking also won't be a problem, as you were never arrested for this.

However, the diagnosis of depression is going to be a problem. The military is a tough way of life (much tougher than most civilians know), and has a very high suicide and attempted suicide rate. As such, they are very cautious about previous depression diagnosises. A history of depression is going to require a waiver, and the services almost never waiver this.

You may wish to see my article about Military medical waivers at: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/a/medicalwaiver.htm Other than that, I can only wish you good luck.

For more information about the US Military, feel free to visit my US Military website at: http://usmilitary.about.com

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com