Can You Take Antidepressants in the Military?
Serving in the military can be a demanding and stressful experience, both physically and emotionally. Deployments, physical training, and the harsh realities of war can all take a toll on soldiers’ mental health. While the military has made progress in recognizing the importance of mental health, there still exists a stigma surrounding depression and anxiety. One way to combat these issues is through medication, specifically antidepressants. But can military personnel take antidepressants, and what are the repercussions?
The Short Answer:
Yes, service members can take antidepressants in the military. Antidepressants are a prescribed medication and are not listed as prohibited substances in Department of Defense (DoD) publications. However, there are certain guidelines and considerations to keep in mind.
Guidelines for Taking Antidepressants in the Military
Before taking antidepressants in the military, it’s essential to know the guidelines and regulations in place:
- Pre-Approval: Antidepressants are considered a performance-enhancing substance, similar to prescription painkillers or muscle relaxants. As such, service members must receive pre-approval from their healthcare provider to take antidepressants.
- Disclosure: Service members must disclose their use of antidepressants to their Unit Commander, as it’s considered a "medicating condition." This is due to concerns about potential safety risks in certain situations or environments.
- Timing: The timing of when antidepressants are taken in relation to duty or duty status may be restricted due to safety concerns. In some cases, service members may need to adjust their medication schedule to ensure peak effectiveness without compromising their military duties.
Types of Antidepressants Used by Military Personnel
Several classes of antidepressants are prescribed to service members, each with varying mechanisms of action and side effects:
| Class | Drug Examples | Purpose |
|---|
- Serotonin Selective Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):| Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), | Anxiolytic and antidepressive effects**|
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Re-uptake Inhibitors (SNRIs):| Venlafaxine (Effexor), Duloxetine (Cymbalta) | Dual-action antidepressants|
- Monamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibitors:| phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate)| Non-selective enzyme inhibitors
Common Consequences of Taking Antidepressants in the Military
While antidepressants can improve mental health, there may be potential consequences for service members to consider:
| Consequence | Risks | Mitigation Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Operational restrictions | Certain duties may be restricted. | Communicate with commands and provide documentation. |
| Fitness for duty determinations | May require additional medical evaluations. | Attend meetings, present current state, and provide documentation. |
| Career impact | Negative impact on MOS or commissioning. | Document everything, seek advise from senior officers, and consider alternatives. |
| Stigma and social interactions | Prevalent due to past perception that psych drugs are indicative of weakness | Educate peers, work with mentors, and involve family to reduce stigma |
Best Practices for Service Members Taking Antidepressants
To minimize potential challenges and optimize treatment:
Before starting antidepressants
- Research and understand antidepressants and potential side effects.
- Schedule a consultation with a primary care physician and/or mental health professional to discuss potential risks and alternatives.
- Obtain pre-approval for medication use according to DoD guidelines.
- Update your medical chart and maintain accurate records.
- Be prepared to modify your schedule or duties accordingly.
During treatment
- Schedule regular check-ups to assess condition progression.
- Monitor medication side effects, and communicate with healthcare professionals.
- Keep a dosage log or calendar to remain organized.
- Consider obtaining a mentor or support individual to provide guidance and assurance.
Conclusion
Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions continue to impact military personnel around the world. While it’s true that antidepressants can help alleviate symptoms, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the relevant guidelines, regulations, and potential consequences. By communicating openly, seeking support from peers and professionals, and maintaining transparency, service members can manage their mental health while honoring their duties within the military.
