I'm 16 and I've been on Adderall XR for 8 months for ADD/ADHD. Can I still join the Marines once I graduate?

Question

My friend who's joining the Navy told me yesterday if your on ADD/ADHD meds over 6 months (I've been on Adderall XR 30mg for 8 months) you cant join the military. I was wondering if anyone is familiar with this policy? Also once I graduate if I stop taking the meds could I still join?

Answer 1

you must be off the meds for one year( with doctor approval) AND function normally during that time( steady employment, continuing education, etc).

You want tot discuss this with your doctor.. there is no way around the one year waiting period, BUT if you go off it on your own withour documentation from your doctor saying he's okay with it, you will NOT be allowed to enlist. and don't bother trying to lie about it.. it will be found out and you will be discharged with fraudulent enlistment and lose all of your bennies.. VA loan, GI Bill, etc.

Answer 2

I got a waiver to join the Air Force because I had both ADD and ADHD and was on Ritalin and Concetta. I stopped taking it for the 2-3 years prior to joining. You'll need a doctor to say that you are able to function properly and concentrate without medication. Maybe if you stop taking it now and have a doctor and teachers keep an eye on you, you can get them to write something for you to give your recruiter. I'd go see a recruiter now too for more specific details in your situation.

boot camp is also very organized and regimented, so you shouldn't have too much trouble without medication. That is typically one common issue with ADD and ADHD people, a lack of organization and too many distractions.

good luck!

Answer 3

All you'll need is a waiver for the medication. Typically, if it's prescribed and not taken illegally, the military doesn't have a problem with it. There are a LOT of Marines, especially, with ADD/ADHD and ODD (oppositional defiant disorder), and a LOT of military members now on anti-depressants and other meds. Besides, they're pretty desperate for people. If you're really interested, you should talk to your local recruiter.

Answer 4

You should focus on getting a solid foundation of self actualization before you think about the military.

My son had what you have and if he had gone into the military or any other highly regimented organization that he was not 1000% dedicated to he would have had his butt handed to him in a heartbeat (repeatedly).

I can't speak for you, I don't know you, but I know discipline and I know you need time.

BTW

My son took my advice, and he focused on what he was passionate about.
He went to Athens in 2004 as an alternate Heavy weight Boxer on the United States Olympic Boxing Team.

Last word.

Don't jump the gun, focus, if your hanging out with any sh!tbirds get them out of your life. Educate yourself. Don't just stop taking your meds because you told yourself it's ok.

You need to develope situational awareness, you have alot of catching up to do in that regard.

Good Luck

Bill

United States Marine Corp
United States Air Force

Answer 5

no, that doesn't make sense =] wow, 8 months! u would think that all the harry potter fans have read the deathly hallows by now right? i saw this girl in school who JUST started about a month and a half ago and isn't even finished with the book yet!! sheesh!

Answer 6

Try a Thom Hartmann book on ADD/ADHD, maybe you don`t need the pill.

Answer 7

dont join the army it is just wasting your life away so you can learn to shoot a gun and "Protect our country" go to this site and learn about all the other things you could be doing with your life, war is not the answer and joining the army is not helping the world.

http://www.axisofjustice.org/

Answer 8

I don't know your answer but I'm proud of you!