military and ADD/ADHD (again) - ADD / ADHD Message Board

J#B · 04-17-2002, 10:46 AM

Hello. I am new to this board. My son took ritalin from 1990-1994 and weaned himself off of it. We didn't realize this for some months. While he acts a bit immature (like any other teen) he did realitively well throughout high school. 3.0+GPA, sports etc. He is trying to get in the military and has passed all the waiver requirements. Still, the bureau of medicine is being a pain in our backside and I am still jumping through hoops trying to get him in. I am an active duty sailor currently serving as an RDC (drill instructor) I have had recruits diagnosed with ADD/ADHD in the past and they have done well. None were taking meds at the time and have been off medicines for at least a year. Anyone out there know how I can get this issue resolved. Please help.
Thanks,
JB

rainbow32 · 04-18-2002, 11:59 AM

The military can be sooooo picky! But i need to say something first. AD/HD needs medication usually just as diabetics need insulin. MOst AD/HD doesn't grow out of need for medication, especiall as adult life grows more complex with such things as college, focusing on a career, marriage, children, and helping to organize the household, and taking care of yourself by getting enough exercise, healthy diet, etc. Life isn't such a STRUGGLE with the proper medication, behavioral counseling and AD/HD coaching. You may just have to continue the waiting game with the military. It could take several months before they make up their mind. i just wouldn't push to not have your son take any more medication for his AD/HD, as he may very well function much better with it, than without. Perhaps the military isn't meant to be for him, and he could consider other ideas to soon do with his life. At any rate, i wish you and your son the best.

rainbow32 · 04-21-2002, 09:07 PM

i have to admit, reading Dr. Amen's "Healing ADD", 2001, there is a true story of a boy who sounds ALOT like your son! He, after taking natural treatments for his ADD for one full year (rather than controlled substance medication or any medication, for that matter) got into the U.S. Air Force. But, that approach worked for him. Doing absolutely nothing, i doubt would help. i hope that your son get's word back soon!

fellner · 05-06-2002, 10:18 AM

My son has all passed all requirements and was offered an Army ROTC scholarship. On Saturday we got a letter telling us our son was not medically qualified because of ADD after age 12. We were very disappointed are starting the waiver process. Please let me know what things you did to assist your son.

J#B · 05-08-2002, 10:29 AM

My son went to see another Psychiatrist. The Dr. said that he showed no symptoms of ADHD. This report was sent up and the waiver was still denied. I can't speak for the other services, but the Navy has some old geezer who can't practice medicine anymore reviewing (or not reviewing) these cases. All the other Doctors I've spoken to say that if the person is not taking meds for one year or more, and can show that they don't need it. For example show job employment or school transcripts/diploma (as in my son's case), the waivers will be granted. Since the Dr. doesn't appear to be reviewing this properly, I have submitted a letter to the commanding officer in our recruiting region. He can override and grant the waiver. If this does not work out, I am submitting a letter to my congressman. This will get results. If you do not have military connections, I would "go congressional" on your son's case. Good luck!