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Careers: Police/yet another requirement question

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Expert: - 11/13/2007


Question
Hello :) I am an 18 year old girl currently attending college for a degree in Law Enforcement. My question was this. I have been struggling with depression my entire life, but I'm afraid to be treated for it because I'm worried that could disqualify me for being a police officer...and that's all I really want to do with my life. If I was taking medicine or going to therapy for my depression, what's the likelyhood of me being disqualified?

Thanks so much. :)

Answer
Nicole:

 It will really depend on the extent of your depression, and how it impacts you day to day.  I'd suggest treatment regardless, since with treatment it might make your life better overall.  Of course, that choice is up to you.  

 I realize this answer isn't a simple 'yes/no', and the reason is because it's not a simple 'yes/no'.  Like I said, it will depend on the extent of your illness, and how it impacts you day to day;  only a doctor can give an opinion on that.

Jason

Careers: Police

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Jason Grabill

Expertise

General Maryland Law Enforcement, Maryland Law & Traffic Law, the Court System. How to start the process to become a Police Officer, different Police careers, the Interview process, General Police career questions

Experience

18 Years experience as a local and Federal Police officer. In addition to working "the road", I've worked as an Academy Instructor, Law Digest Compiler for Police Department, Community Policing coordinator, Department Gang officer, Bike Patrol Officer, and Advanced Accident Investigator. I've also served on the SWAT/SRT team, and currently work for the Department of Army Police (Federal Civilian) at Fort Detrick, Frederick Md, as a Sergeant. I'm Certified as a Police and Emergency Medical dispatcher through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.

Organizations
Police Marksman Association Fraternal Order of Police

Education/Credentials
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Prince Georges County Maryland Municipal Police Academy, Western Maryland Police Academy
Radar, Portable Breath Test, PR-24 Police Baton, ASP, Police Mountain Bike Certified. Maryland Police Training Commission Basic Instructor Certified. CALEA Certified Field Training Officer (FTO), Advanced Criminal Investigator School, Advanced Crash Investigator School, National Academies of Emergency Dispatch Certified Emergency Police Dispatch, Emergency Medical Dispatch, Emergency Telecommunications Operator.

Awards and Honors
Police Officer of the Year, Prince Georges County Municipal Police Chiefs Association (1995).
City of District Heights Police Officer of the Year, 1995.
Distinguished Service Cross for Valor, 1995 (National Association Chiefs of Police).

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