[Star_Gazer]

My kids tell me that in order for them to join the military they have to be off of their ADHD meds for a period of time...like two years or so. Can anyone help me with this?

I know that some of you have kids that have joined the military. How did their meds affect things? My kids take meds for ADHD as well as Risperdal.

[lucyjoy]

Your kids are correct.

And, and ADHD diagnosis can disqualify them from enlistment as well. Most recruiters tell them to lie about this, but I wouldn't recommend it.

[shavon]

yip I also think your kids may be right, my bio son is graduating Marine boot camp next thursday, and if I remember correctly I read somewhere that if they took meds on a daily basis when they got to wherever they were going the on base dr would examine them and if they needed meds he would prescribe them. BUT I am not sure that would include psychotropic (sp?) drugs I think that might disqualify him for military service. you could always call a recruiting office and ask questions.

[bulrusmama]

I served myself and I don't think the military accepted people with ADHD type diagnosis, but that was 20 years ago.
bulrusmama

[Adoption_Ally]

Yes, it's true. Or it was just a few years ago.

It's like this: Do you want somebody next to you with a major weapon who has to take drugs to focus? In the heat of battle they have to say "Time out! Gotta take my meds!" Not a good idea for anyone.

My son was told he would have to be off all medication for one year, and then he could enlist.

[RavenSong]

My son tried to enlist with the Navy during the First Gulf War, but he was turned down due to his longstanding ADHD diagnosis. He wasn't on any medications at the time, either. Just the diagnosis by itself was enough for automatic rejection.