migraines disqualifying for ANG?!! disappointed.

1911guy · Jul 9, 2006

My understanding is that generally anything that you currently need to take meds to control will disqualify you from enlistment/commissioning in any of the services (anything- migraines, blood pressure, depression, ADHD, etc.). If you can get it under control without meds and go a certain period of time without meds you may want to talk to a recruiter again then. Basically, if you need meds to control it you can't join, but most of the same conditions wouldn't be cause for a discharge if the need for meds developed after you were already in.

luvmy2angels · Jul 9, 2006

Don't feel bad, I was turned down because I have flat feet!?!?!

nurseabc123 · Jul 9, 2006

My understanding is that generally anything that you currently need to take meds to control will disqualify you from enlistment/commissioning in any of the services (anything- migraines, blood pressure, depression, ADHD, etc.). If you can get it under control without meds and go a certain period of time without meds you may want to talk to a recruiter again then. Basically, if you need meds to control it you can't join, but most of the same conditions wouldn't be cause for a discharge if the need for meds developed after you were already in.

Thanks for the response. I think I will try to do as you suggested. Afterall, I am only 20 and do not want take medication for the rest of my life as it is. Then again, as the poster below, I have flat feet also - maybe it's not meant to be!

1911guy · Jul 11, 2006

Then again, as the poster below, I have flat feet also - maybe it's not meant to be!

Well, why do you want to serve?

If you want to serve your country and/or community there are other options. Have you looked into the uniformed branch of the Public Health Corps? It is a uniformed service with military organization and benefits- and you may get to serve with the Coast Guard. Do the civilian branch of the Public Health Corps and you still get to serve underserved areas and make a real contribution. Get involved with the local volunteer fire department. Check out to see if your state has a State Guard or Defense Force (a unpaid, volunteer, military style civil defense organization- most have a real need for healthcare professionals).

If you want/need the benefits, there are also other options. Check with local hospitals. Maybe get a job as a CNA while working and get them to help pay for the last of school. Maybe you can get loan repayment in exchange for a minimum time period on your contract. Again, check with the Public Health Corps.

There are other options if the military doesn't work out.

Also, make sure you double check on my suggestion about if you can control your headaches without meds. There may be a minimum time period, and some conditions may perminantly disqualify you even if you only USED to need meds but don't currently (I'm not sure, I never really had to know much about this area).