Does seeing a therapist disqualify You from the military?

Does Seeing a Therapist Disqualify You from the Military?

The military is a highly demanding and stressful environment, and it’s common for service members to seek help from mental health professionals to cope with the emotional toll of their duties. However, many individuals who are considering joining the military or are already serving may wonder if seeking therapy or counseling could disqualify them from military service. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide a comprehensive overview of the military’s policies regarding mental health treatment.

Does Seeing a Therapist Disqualify You from the Military?

In short, no, seeing a therapist or counselor does not automatically disqualify you from military service. However, the military does have certain requirements and guidelines that must be met in order to join or continue serving.

Military Mental Health Policy

The military has a strict policy regarding mental health treatment, and it’s designed to ensure that service members are fit for duty. The policy is outlined in the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) Medical Standards, which provides guidelines for evaluating the mental health of prospective service members.

MEPS Medical Standards

The MEPS Medical Standards are used to evaluate the physical and mental health of individuals who are applying to join the military. The standards are designed to ensure that service members are fit for duty and can perform their job requirements without posing a risk to themselves or others.

Mental Health Disqualifications

While seeing a therapist or counselor does not automatically disqualify you from military service, certain mental health conditions can make you ineligible for service. The following conditions are considered disqualifying:

• Mental health conditions that require medication: Certain mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, may require medication to manage symptoms. If you’re taking medication for a mental health condition, you may be disqualified from military service.
• Mental health conditions that require hospitalization: If you’ve been hospitalized for a mental health condition, you may be disqualified from military service.
• Mental health conditions that interfere with duty performance: If you have a mental health condition that interferes with your ability to perform your job duties, you may be disqualified from military service.

How Mental Health Treatment Affects Military Service

While seeing a therapist or counselor does not automatically disqualify you from military service, mental health treatment can affect your ability to serve in certain capacities. For example:

• Limited duty: If you’re receiving mental health treatment, you may be assigned to limited duty, which means you’ll be restricted from performing certain tasks or duties.
• Delayed entry: If you’re receiving mental health treatment, you may be delayed entry into the military, which means you’ll be unable to start your military service until your treatment is complete.
• Medical discharge: If your mental health condition is severe and interferes with your ability to perform your job duties, you may be medically discharged from the military.

What to Do if You’re Considering Seeking Therapy

If you’re considering seeking therapy or counseling, it’s essential to understand the potential impact on your military service. Here are some steps you can take:

• Consult with a military recruiter: Before seeking therapy, consult with a military recruiter to discuss your mental health and how it may affect your ability to serve.
• Choose a therapist who is familiar with the military: Choose a therapist who is familiar with the military and its policies regarding mental health treatment.
• Keep your therapist informed: Keep your therapist informed about your military service and any potential implications of your treatment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, seeing a therapist or counselor does not automatically disqualify you from military service. However, certain mental health conditions can make you ineligible for service. It’s essential to understand the military’s policies regarding mental health treatment and to consult with a military recruiter or therapist who is familiar with the military’s requirements.

Table: Military Mental Health Policy

Bullets: What to Do if You’re Considering Seeking Therapy

• Consult with a military recruiter
• Choose a therapist who is familiar with the military
• Keep your therapist informed about your military service