Does Mental Health History Affect Military Enlistment?

Hey guys! I'm contemplating entering the military after graduating from high school, but I'm slightly worried about the enlistment process, especially because I've had some mental health issues in the past. Does any branch of the U.S military accept recruits with a mental health history? What sort of information do I need to disclose? All advice would be appreciated!

Your decision to consider military service after high school is one that can offer an array of life experiences and opportunities. It's valid to have questions about how your mental health history might intersect with this decision.

All branches of the military do require prospective enlistees to undergo a physical examination, which includes a review of their medical history. This is conducted by the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB). During this review, an individual's mental health history will typically come into focus.

Past mental health issues do not automatically disqualify someone from military service. That being said, whether or not you may be eligible to enlist can depend on a variety of factors including the nature, severity, and timing of any mental health concerns you've experienced, as well as any treatment you've received. For instance, if a person had a depressive episode in the past but has since been well-managed and symptom-free for a significant period, this might not pose a barrier to enlistment.

However, certain conditions might lead to medical disqualification, including but not limited to mood disorders subject to frequent exacerbations, or those requiring ongoing treatment or that could reasonably be expected to limit an individual's ability to function fully in a military setting.

Honesty in disclosing your health history is extremely important through this process. Intentionally failing to disclose medical history could be deemed fraudulent enlistment, which can lead to serious consequences including dishonorable discharge.

A great next step would be to speak with a recruitment officer who could connect you with the right resources to help navigate your particular situation. It might also be helpful to consult with any current mental health provider, if applicable, to discuss your intentions and strategize next steps.

Remember, it's crucial to prioritize your wellbeing. While the tradition of service is a noble one, it's also important to find a path that's going to support your overall health and happiness. Good luck with your decision-making process!