Army lifts ban on recruits with mental health history

[Progressive2020]

18. More Soldiers

I have a bipolar diagnosis. I come from a Military family on my Father's side, and would have gone Army Airborne/AROTC in College but for the diagnosis.

I do not appreciate mad people being called "one of the mentals". Would you say that a Person of Color is "one of the blacks", or an LGBT person is "one of the gays"?

Anyway, that said, I once had a hospitalization early during the start of the Iraq War, and I met a kid who was in the hospital for depression. Turns out he was in Special Forces, could take apart a rifle blindfolded and reassemble it. His Recruiting Officer showed up in the Hospital to help get him out and back in service.

So, as society gets to understand mental health better, do not be surprised if the Army starts recruiting more and offering waivers to some who have had psychological issues. The Army definitely wanted the Special Forces guy back despite his bout with depression. People who have experienced mental health challenges are human too, and if they want to serve, and are able, then they should have the opportunity. I am in favor of a waiver program.