Expert: John L - 4/23/2011

Question
I've been in the Army National Guard for about three years and now, at the age of 23, I've been diagnosed with ADHD-Inattentive type. This is the kind that most females have and it is often diagnosed later in life because there is no hyperactivity so it goes unnoticed. I really would like to try medication to help me deal with it, but I know I will have to tell my unit and I'm afraid I will get discharged. I've been pretty successful in life so far so if it will end my military career, I won't take it. I've made it this far without medication so I know that I could suck it up and just deal with it for another three years until I get out but I have a lot of trouble with spacing out and daydreaming and it drives me crazy!! I want to try the medication and see how much of a difference it makes, but we have random UAs on a pretty regular basis so I know I can't try it without telling them. Do you know if it is possible to stay in on ADHD medication?

Answer
You do NOT have to tell your unit.  You only have to tell the Dr during the next PHA/Physical.  While in the Guard. you are allowed to seek civiliam medical treatment with no reporting to yuor uit unless you are having something done that can affect your military status.  medication will not affect you, so just drive on and do your treatment.  

When your next PHA comes u[, just tell the Doc, you will still get an all clear.  The only issue might comeup if you deploy, but maybe not.