ADHD and the military

[Alex429595]

Hi everyone
The other thread on all the obese/ritalin riddled couch potato kids got me thinking. I have always toyed with the idea of a military career, but one thing sticks in my mind. In 7th grade, I was diagnosed with ADHD and took ritalin for a year or two. The symptoms went away, and I stopped taking it. Doctor said I probably grew out of it. Obviously the FAA had issues when I applied for my medical, and it took 15 months to clear it up, after many doctor visits and several days of testing. The tests showed that I was 100% clear of ADHD. I have been told that, because of this, the military will never take me, especailly not as a pilot. Do you military folks find this to be the case? I emailed the ROTC recruiter at my school several months ago, no reply. Thanks!

 

[fbomb]

Yes it can. PM me and I can answer other questions. I am not a doctor but can help out.

 

[McGillicutty]

I applied for and received a waiver under similar circumstances.

Waivers for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are a very “case by case” issue. You need to be off the medication and functioning well in an academic or occupational environment for AT LEAST a year. Further, they will need detailed information on the circumstances of your workup and diagnosis, academic function over your school years, etc.

I also received a note from my physician (military) who originally diagnosed me stating that currently I am free of symptoms and that I had his full endorsement to attend flight school.

If you have anymore questions feel free to PM me.

 

[USMCAirWinger]

I applied for and received a waiver under similar circumstances.

I am free of symptoms

I can honestly say that there is no way in hell that you are free of symptoms. Nice short bus M2!

 

[Mamma]

My wife diagnosed me with ADD. I don't think that counts though!