Hello! I would like to join the Air Force, and become career military. I have a BS already, and considered applying for OCS. However, I am on Paxil for obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic attacks. Unfortunatly, I will probably have to be on these things for the rest of my life. Does this preclude me from joining the air force? Should I just forget about it? Thanks.
2006-09-19 09:12:32 · 13 answers · asked by atomicfrog81 3 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
Soory bud But I am an Air Force recruiter and I promise you an issue like this would defiantly keep you out of the armed forces. Especially if you are dependant on the meds. You can try to see your local recruiter but I bet his answer will match mine
2006-09-20 08:48:30 · answer #1 · answered by arpowre3 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know about the Air Force or Navy, but it'd disqualify you from the Army and probably Marine Corps. The logic being that due to the branch's nature, you could be isolated in field conditions, unable to recieve the medication if it ran out. The effect of sudden cessation of the med can have serious side effects. Don't let that dissuade you though! It might be that you'll still be considered. I've heard of active Navy folks being prescribed similar medications. Air Force and Navy may still be open to you, but there WILL be limitations on what occupations are open. (this is all based on if ya have to take em permanently)
2006-09-24 13:16:15 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am currently exploring my options in OCS/OTC since I already have my BS as well. I have been reading alot about all the branches. I am not 100% sure whether your conidition will disqualify you from serving. It will probably depend on the severity and whether it gets better with time. If you were to do a job that is non-combat, I don't see why you couldn't join. Your best bet is talk to a recruiter and they will probably have you examined by a seperate doctor.
2006-09-19 09:28:55 · answer #3 · answered by atothek96 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It looks as if you have a permanent disqualifying condition. Any anxiety disorder in which you have been under the care of a physician, etc. for more than six months, is a permanent disqualifier.
Here's a link (that has related links within) to help you determine your particular case:
http://usmilitary.about.com/od/joiningthemilitary/a/neurotic.htm
2006-09-19 11:19:44 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
That is a good question? I do not know if it will disqualify you but it will make it hard for you to get in, especially with the cutbacks in the Officer ranks that the air force is going through!
2006-09-19 09:16:19 · answer #5 · answered by jamie s 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I don't know the answer but the people you should be talking to are Air Force recruiters. No matter what you would have to take a physical and disclose these problems prior to enlistment. So put in your papers and see where it takes you. Hopefully you'll get in.
2006-09-19 09:15:58 · answer #6 · answered by danl747 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
My buddy was taking Paxil, and the AF Clinic told him to get off it within 3 months or they would separate him. I don't know if one were to take Paxil and stop if he could get in--but I know you can't take it while you're in.
2006-09-19 09:37:04 · answer #7 · answered by amish-robot 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
you would have to be off the meds for a year (by doctor's approval) and function normally during that year.
OCD requiring meds is a Permanent Disqualifier.
2006-09-19 18:01:14 · answer #8 · answered by Mrsjvb 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check with your recruiter.
I'm not sure if it's permissible to enter the AF but I know you can be in and stay in with those afflictions.
Your recruiter would know the best answer for this question.
2006-09-19 09:16:53 · answer #9 · answered by Fatboy 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I dont think you'll be able to but you should still ask like the people who work there cause i dont wanna bring your hopes down
2006-09-19 09:21:20 · answer #10 · answered by zeba_231 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋