Can I join the military with anxiety?

Can I Join the Military with Anxiety?

The United States Armed Forces are a prestigious organization that requires individuals to serve their country with honor and distinction. However, one of the most common barriers to joining the military is anxiety. Yes, you can join the military with anxiety, but there are certain requirements and exceptions that you need to be aware of.

The Military’s Perspective on Anxiety

The military views anxiety as a mental health condition that can impact an individual’s ability to perform duties and maintain the high level of discipline required in the military. The Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) uses a series of tests and evaluations to assess an individual’s mental fitness for service. Anxiety is one of the mental health conditions that can impact an individual’s ability to serve.

Types of Anxiety

There are different types of anxiety, and not all of them disqualify an individual from joining the military. The most common types of anxiety that can impact an individual’s ability to join the military are:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences a traumatic event.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Excessive and persistent worry about everyday things.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Fear or anxiety in social situations.

Can I Join the Military with Anxiety?

Yes, you can join the military with anxiety, but you need to meet certain requirements and have a waiver approved. Here are the general guidelines:

• If you have a history of anxiety and have been symptom-free for at least 2 years, you may be eligible to join the military.
• If you are currently experiencing symptoms of anxiety, you may still be eligible to join the military, but you will need to have a waiver approved.
• If you have a waiver approved, you will need to receive a medical clearance from a military doctor and undergo treatment for your anxiety.

How to Join the Military with Anxiety

If you have anxiety and want to join the military, here are the steps you need to take:

1. Meet the military’s minimum qualifications: You must meet the military’s minimum qualifications, including age, education, and physical fitness.
2. Get evaluated by a military doctor: You will need to undergo a medical evaluation by a military doctor to determine if your anxiety is severe enough to disqualify you from service.
3. Obtain a waiver: If you are found to have anxiety, you will need to obtain a waiver from the military. The waiver will depend on the severity of your anxiety and your medical history.
4. Undergo treatment: If your waiver is approved, you will need to undergo treatment for your anxiety and receive a medical clearance from a military doctor.

Military Branches’ Policy on Anxiety

Each military branch has its own policy on anxiety and mental health. Here is a brief overview of each branch’s policy:

• Army: The Army allows individuals with anxiety to join, but they must have a waiver approved and undergo treatment.
• Navy: The Navy has a more restrictive policy on anxiety, and individuals with severe anxiety may be disqualified from service.
• Air Force: The Air Force allows individuals with anxiety to join, but they must have a waiver approved and undergo treatment.
• Marine Corps: The Marine Corps has a very restrictive policy on anxiety, and individuals with severe anxiety may be disqualified from service.
• Coast Guard: The Coast Guard allows individuals with anxiety to join, but they must have a waiver approved and undergo treatment.

Treatment Options for Anxiety in the Military

If you have anxiety and join the military, you will have access to treatment options to manage your symptoms. Here are some of the treatment options available:

• Medications: Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines can be used to treat anxiety.
• Counseling: Counseling and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be used to treat anxiety.
• Support groups: Support groups, such as the USO’s Mental Health Support Group, can provide a sense of community and support for individuals with anxiety.

Conclusion

While anxiety can be a barrier to joining the military, it is not an insurmountable obstacle. If you have anxiety and want to join the military, you can still pursue your dream with the right preparation and support. By meeting the military’s minimum qualifications, obtaining a waiver, and undergoing treatment, you can overcome your anxiety and serve your country with distinction.

Table: Military Branches’ Policy on Anxiety

Bullets List: Treatment Options for Anxiety in the Military

• Medications
• Counseling and therapy
• Support groups