Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/discharged for depression

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Expert: - 1/11/2010


Question
My son when to ft Leonard wood on the 4th an the next day he told The drill sgt that he was depressed.they put him on suicide watch and he has been there every since.I don't know what is really going on all I know is that he told me "mom if they send me home will be ok,but if they don't I WILL do something.they told him that he will go back to his barracks Tues an then as soon as the drill Sgt finishes the paper work he will be discharged. we have been told this could take up to a month,will it take that long? I am worried about him an he is freaking out.He has a history of depression but I really don't think they know it.

Answer
It can take a few weeks, but he should not have been able to join to begin with.  Just tell him to hang in there, he will be sent home as soon as possible.  Usually, if they talk like that, they are looking for attention the worng way.  I recommend also that he seeks back help from a doctor when he returns.

Irt is important to make sure he keeps focused on coming home and not being stuck there.

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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John L

Expertise

I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

Experience

13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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