Diagnosed ADHD before nursing school. Will this disqualify me from joining the USAF?

[tag14]

Hi everyone,

I always had a tough time with school and work, not because I am stupid or lazy but because it seemed just impossible for me to focus and sit down long enough to get work done. I compensated all throughout school by cramming last minute and being bright enough to do decent. I was raised with parents that were strictly "sit down do your work" so I never considered any medications.

Before starting nursing school, I went and saw my doc. I told him about my grades, lifestyle, studying habits, etc. and he prescribed Adderall 15mg tablets BID. I was a little nervous about the med but he stressed the importance of my exercise routine (which I exercise religiously) and a good diet (which I have). Anyways, the medicine really helps me focus and I am able to get stuff done in advance so i'm not shoving stuff down the night before, etc. Instead of Cs/Bs I am getting almost all 3.7s and higher. I don't take it a lot, one script last me months (where I can get a new script every month). If I had to stop taking it I think it would be extremely difficult to compensate but I could do it.

I want to join the USAF as a nurse right after graduation. I am going to set up an appointment soon to talk to a recruiter but before I waste any time I am curious - does having a previous dx of ADHD automatically disqualify you, specifically with the tx of adder all (since this is such a controlled drug). I have tried searching but have come across mixed answers, it seems with a doc's prescription that I would be fine?

Thanks

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

Bottom line, if you are treated for a condition that is potentially disqualifying and you don't disclose it, then I would consider it lying. Personally not something I would either do or recommend.

[SummitRN, BSN, RN]

^Homosexuality was a condition that was disqualifying.

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

^Homosexuality was a condition that was disqualifying.

I don't see it as the same thing because I don't view homosexuality as either a disease or as a treatable medical condition. Your mileage may vary.

Regardless, we've gone off track. What is disclosed to the military during the medical screening process is up to each individual, but just be aware that the service values honesty. Best of luck to the OP.

[ArmyRN789]

You should never lie on ANY job application, but if you are willing to lie to get into the military, I don't want you in my military. Be honest, ask questions, accept the answers and do what you need to do if they give you a way to get in (ie: staying off the meds for a year). If this is something you really want then don't let anything stand in your way. Just don't lie to get there. That's not what being an officer is all about.