Bottom Line Up Front: ADHD diagnosis does NOT automatically end your military career. However, medication type and job requirements matter. Stimulant medications (Adderall, Ritalin) can disqualify you from aviation, special operations, and submarine duty but are allowed in most other jobs. Non-stimulant medications (Strattera, Wellbutrin) have fewer restrictions. Security clearances require disclosure but are rarely denied for treated ADHD alone. Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) only if ADHD severely impacts job performance after treatment. Key: Get diagnosed, get treated, document everything, work with provider on medication that fits your career. Real outcomes: E-5 diagnosed, stayed on Adderall, thrived in logistics (no restrictions); O-2 lost flight status but continued successful service in operations.
Table of Contents
- ADHD Prevalence in Military
- Getting Diagnosed While Active Duty
- Medication Options and Career Implications
- Jobs Impacted by ADHD Diagnosis
- Non-Medication Strategies
- Security Clearance Considerations
- Medical Evaluation Board Process
- Transitioning with ADHD
- Childhood ADHD Diagnosis
- Common Mistakes
- Action Steps
- FAQ
ADHD Prevalence in Military
The Numbers
Estimated rates:
- General population: 4-5% of adults have ADHD
- Military (estimated): 2-8% (underdiagnosed due to stigma and fear of career impact)
- Combat veterans: 8-12% (higher due to TBI/PTSD comorbidity)
Why underdiagnosed in military:
- Fear of losing job or career progression
- Stigma around mental health
- Misconception that ADHD = automatic separation
- Many service members "adapted" or "masked" symptoms before diagnosis
- High-functioning ADHD (compensated for years but struggling now)
Why ADHD Often Goes Unrecognized
Military environment can mask ADHD:
- ✅ External structure (PT, formations, deadlines) compensates for internal disorganization
- ✅ High-stakes missions create urgency (natural stimulation for ADHD brain)
- ✅ Physical activity (PT, field exercises) helps manage symptoms
- ✅ Clear hierarchy reduces decision paralysis
Military environment can also worsen ADHD:
- ❌ Frequent PCS moves disrupt routines (ADHD needs consistency)
- ❌ Administrative paperwork and bureaucracy (ADHD weakness)
- ❌ Long periods of boredom (barracks, watch duty) with bursts of intense activity
- ❌ Sleep deprivation (worsens ADHD symptoms)
- ❌ High stress (deployment, leadership pressure) reduces executive function
Pro Tip: If you've always struggled with organization, focus, or impulsivity but "made it work," consider evaluation. ADHD doesn't mean you're broken—it means your brain works differently and may benefit from treatment.
Getting Diagnosed While Active Duty
Should You Get Evaluated?
Consider evaluation if you experience:
- ✅ Chronic difficulty focusing on paperwork or admin tasks
- ✅ Losing important items (CAC, keys, orders, forms)
- ✅ Missing deadlines despite good intentions
- ✅ Feeling "bored" or "understimulated" most of the time
- ✅ Hyperfocus on interesting tasks but can't start boring ones
- ✅ Impulsive decisions (spending, relationships, career)
- ✅ Restlessness, can't sit still during briefings
- ✅ Interrupting others, talking over people
- ✅ Time blindness (always late, underestimate task duration)
- ✅ Emotional dysregulation (anger, frustration, mood swings)
When to seek evaluation:
- Symptoms impact job performance (counseling statements, missed deadlines)
- Personal life suffering (relationship problems, financial issues)
- Feeling overwhelmed despite trying organization systems
- Suspected ADHD since childhood but never diagnosed
How to Get Diagnosed (TRICARE Process)
Step 1: Primary Care Manager (PCM) Referral
- Schedule appointment with PCM at MTF (military treatment facility)
- Explain symptoms, duration, impact on work/life
- PCM will do initial screening (questionnaire, symptom checklist)
- Request referral to Behavioral Health or psychiatry
Step 2: Behavioral Health Evaluation
- Initial intake appointment (1 hour)
- Detailed history: Childhood, school, work, relationships
- Symptom questionnaires (Conners, ASRS, CAARS)
- Cognitive testing if needed (IQ, attention tests)
- Rule out other conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD, TBI)
Step 3: Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
- Provider determines if you meet DSM-5 criteria for ADHD
- Three types: Inattentive, Hyperactive-Impulsive, Combined
- Discuss treatment options (medication, therapy, accommodations)
- Document in medical record
Timeline: 4-12 weeks from PCM visit to diagnosis
Cost: $0 (TRICARE covers all evaluations and treatment)
What to Expect During Evaluation
Questions they'll ask:
- "When did symptoms start?" (ADHD must be present since childhood, but can be diagnosed as adult)
- "How do symptoms affect work?" (promotions, counseling, performance)
- "How do symptoms affect home life?" (relationships, finances, household management)
- "Have you tried coping strategies?" (planners, apps, routines)
- "Any head injuries?" (TBI can mimic ADHD)
- "Any substance use?" (self-medication with caffeine, nicotine, alcohol)
Tests you may take:
- ADHD symptom scales (rate frequency of symptoms 0-4)
- Continuous performance test (click button when you see "X" on screen—tests sustained attention)
- IQ test (rule out intellectual disability)
- Memory tests (rule out memory disorders)
⚠️ Warning: Be honest. Exaggerating symptoms can lead to misdiagnosis. Downplaying symptoms wastes everyone's time. Accurate diagnosis = effective treatment.
Medication Options and Career Implications
Medication Categories
| Type | Examples | Mechanism | Career Restrictions | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stimulants (Amphetamines) | Adderall, Vyvanse, Dexedrine | Increase dopamine/norepinephrine | ⚠️ Flight status, special ops, submarines | ✅ 70-80% effective |
| Stimulants (Methylphenidate) | Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin | Increase dopamine/norepinephrine | ⚠️ Flight status, special ops, submarines | ✅ 70-80% effective |
| Non-Stimulants (NRI) | Strattera (atomoxetine), Wellbutrin (bupropion) | Increase norepinephrine | ✅ Fewer restrictions | ✅ 50-60% effective |
| Non-Stimulants (Alpha-2 Agonists) | Intuniv (guanfacine), Kapvay (clonidine) | Regulate prefrontal cortex | ✅ Fewer restrictions | ✅ 40-50% effective (best for hyperactivity) |
Career Restrictions by Medication Type
Jobs with STRICT stimulant restrictions:
- Aviation: Pilots, flight crew, air traffic control (all branches)
- Special Operations: SEALs, Green Berets, Rangers, PJs, CCT (stimulants usually disqualifying)
- Submarine Duty: Confined environment, limited medical support
- Dive Status: Deep sea diving, salvage divers
- EOD: Explosive Ordnance Disposal (some units allow non-stimulants case-by-case)
Why stimulants are restricted for these jobs:
- Cardiovascular effects (increased heart rate, blood pressure)
- Altitude/pressure considerations (aviation, diving)
- Potential for withdrawal symptoms in field (combat, undersea)
- Mission-critical performance concerns (split-second decisions)
Jobs where stimulants are USUALLY ALLOWED:
- ✅ Infantry, combat arms
- ✅ Logistics, supply, admin
- ✅ Intelligence, cyber
- ✅ Medical (unless anesthesia provider)
- ✅ Maintenance, motor pool
- ✅ Most conventional units
Non-stimulant medications (Strattera, Wellbutrin):
- ✅ Fewer career restrictions
- ✅ May allow continued aviation or special duty (case-by-case)
- ✅ Less effective than stimulants (50-60% vs. 70-80%)
- ✅ Takes 4-6 weeks to see full effect (vs. 1-2 hours for stimulants)
Getting Medication While Maintaining Career
Strategy if in restricted career field:
- Get diagnosed (don't hide it)
- Discuss career impact with provider and commander
- Try non-stimulant medication first (Strattera, Wellbutrin)
- If non-stimulants fail, decide: Switch to stimulants (lose status) or manage without meds
- Document everything in case of future MEB
Real Example 1: O-2 Pilot
- Diagnosed ADHD-Inattentive, struggling with admin paperwork
- Tried Strattera (non-stimulant) for 3 months—mild improvement
- Tried Wellbutrin—no improvement
- Switched to Adderall—huge improvement but lost flight status
- Continued service as operations officer, thrived in new role
- Outcome: Career continued, promotion to O-3, no regrets
Real Example 2: E-5 Logistics
- Diagnosed ADHD-Combined, always losing gear, missing deadlines
- Started Adderall—immediate improvement
- No career restrictions (logistics = no stimulant prohibition)
- Went from counseling statements to top performer in 6 months
- Outcome: Promoted to E-6, re-enlisted, medication continues
Jobs Impacted by ADHD Diagnosis
High-Risk Career Fields (May Require MEB if Medicated)
| Job Type | ADHD + Stimulants | ADHD + Non-Stimulants | ADHD No Meds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pilot (all branches) | ❌ Disqualifying | ⚠️ Case-by-case waiver | ✅ May continue if perform well |
| Special Operations | ❌ Usually disqualifying | ⚠️ Rarely approved | ⚠️ Case-by-case |
| Submarine Duty | ❌ Disqualifying | ⚠️ Case-by-case | ✅ May continue |
| Dive Status | ❌ Disqualifying | ⚠️ Case-by-case | ✅ May continue |
| EOD | ❌ Usually disqualifying | ⚠️ Case-by-case | ✅ May continue |
| Air Traffic Control | ❌ Disqualifying | ⚠️ Case-by-case | ✅ May continue |
Low-Risk Career Fields (Usually No Impact)
- ✅ Infantry, combat arms
- ✅ Logistics, supply, transportation
- ✅ Admin, HR, finance
- ✅ Intelligence (most roles)
- ✅ Cyber operations
- ✅ Medical (non-anesthesia)
- ✅ Maintenance, mechanical
- ✅ Communications
- ✅ Most conventional support roles
MEB Triggers for ADHD
You will NOT face MEB just for ADHD diagnosis.
MEB is triggered only if:
- ❌ Medication required to perform duties + your job prohibits that medication (aviation, special ops)
- ❌ ADHD symptoms prevent you from meeting retention standards despite treatment
- ❌ Comorbid conditions (ADHD + severe depression + PTSD) combined render you unfit
MEB is NOT triggered if:
- ✅ Diagnosis alone (no job impact)
- ✅ Successfully treated and performing duties
- ✅ Non-stimulant medication allowed in your career field
- ✅ Managing without medication and meeting standards
Pro Tip: Document all treatment attempts. If MEB happens, showing you tried multiple medications and non-medication strategies strengthens your case for continued service or disability rating.
Non-Medication Strategies
Behavioral Accommodations (Without Formal Diagnosis)
Organizational systems:
- Use phone reminders for every deadline (Outlook/Google Calendar)
- Visual checklists (paper or app like Todoist)
- Body doubling (work alongside battle buddy for accountability)
- Time-blocking (Pomodoro: 25 minutes work, 5 minutes break)
- External deadlines (ask supervisor to check-in weekly)
Environmental modifications:
- Request desk near window (natural light helps focus)
- Noise-canceling headphones (reduce distractions)
- Stand-up desk or fidget tools (manage hyperactivity)
- Clean workspace (ADHD + clutter = cognitive overload)
Lifestyle interventions:
- Regular exercise (30-60 min daily, as intense as possible)
- Consistent sleep (7-8 hours, same time nightly)
- Limit caffeine to morning (ADHD + caffeine = worse sleep)
- Protein-rich breakfast (stable blood sugar = better focus)
- Avoid alcohol (worsens ADHD symptoms next day)
Therapy Options (TRICARE Covered)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for ADHD:
- Teaches time management, organization, planning
- Addresses negative self-talk ("I'm lazy," "I'm stupid")
- 8-12 sessions, TRICARE covers
- Effective for 50-60% of people
ADHD Coaching (Not Always Covered):
- Focuses on practical strategies (systems, routines, accountability)
- Less clinical than therapy, more "how-to"
- May be available through Military OneSource (12 free sessions/year)
Accommodations Without Formal ADA Request:
- Most commanders will informally accommodate if you communicate needs
- "I work best with written instructions" (vs. verbal-only)
- "Can I have deadlines 2 days earlier?" (buffer for ADHD time blindness)
- "Can I take notes on laptop during briefings?" (helps focus)
⚠️ Warning: Don't mention "ADHD" or "disability" when requesting informal accommodations. Frame as work preference or learning style.
Security Clearance Considerations
Disclosure Requirements
You MUST disclose:
- ✅ ADHD diagnosis on SF-86 (security clearance application)
- ✅ All prescribed medications (including stimulants)
- ✅ Mental health treatment (therapy, psychiatry)
Failure to disclose = security clearance denial or revocation (much worse than disclosing upfront)
Adjudication Factors for ADHD
What adjudicators care about:
- Are you currently in treatment? (Good: Yes, shows responsibility)
- Are you compliant with treatment? (Taking meds as prescribed, attending therapy)
- Is your ADHD well-controlled? (No recent job performance issues)
- Any substance abuse? (ADHD + untreated = higher risk of self-medication)
- Any financial problems? (ADHD impulsivity can cause debt, which is clearance concern)
ADHD alone is rarely disqualifying for clearance if:
- ✅ You're in treatment (medication or therapy)
- ✅ You're stable (no recent crises)
- ✅ No comorbid issues (substance abuse, financial problems, criminal behavior)
Real-World Clearance Outcomes
Secret Clearance:
- ADHD + treatment = virtually no impact
- Disclosure shows honesty (good trait for clearance)
- Adjudicators see ADHD regularly, not a red flag
Top Secret / TS-SCI:
- ADHD + treatment = minimal impact
- If recent diagnosis (<1 year), may require follow-up interview
- If long-term stable (>2 years), non-issue
Denial scenarios (rare):
- ADHD + substance abuse (self-medicating with drugs/alcohol)
- ADHD + financial irresponsibility (impulse spending, debt)
- ADHD + lying on SF-86 (didn't disclose diagnosis)
Real Example: E-6 intel analyst, TS/SCI clearance:
- Diagnosed ADHD at age 28, started Adderall
- Disclosed on periodic reinvestigation (PR)
- Investigator asked: "How long on medication? Any side effects? Job performance OK?"
- Clearance renewed without delay
- Outcome: No impact
Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) Process
When MEB is Initiated for ADHD
Rare scenarios only:
- Medication required + job prohibits medication (aviation on stimulants)
- Severe ADHD unresponsive to all treatments + job performance below standards
- ADHD + other mental health conditions (depression, PTSD) combined = unfit for duty
Most common MEB trigger for ADHD:
- Pilot or special operator diagnosed, tried non-stimulants (failed), needs stimulants to function = can no longer perform primary duty = MEB
MEB Process for ADHD
Step 1: Commander Initiates MEB
- Usually after provider determines medication is career-incompatible
- You're placed on limited duty (LIMDU) or medical hold
- Case is sent to Medical Evaluation Board
Step 2: MEB Review (30-60 days)
- Board reviews medical records
- Determines: Does condition meet retention standards?
- Options:
- Return to duty: Condition doesn't impact job (rare for ADHD + restricted career)
- MEB → PEB: Condition impacts job, send to Physical Evaluation Board
Step 3: PEB (Physical Evaluation Board)
- Determines if you're "fit" or "unfit" for continued service
- If unfit: Assigns disability rating (0-100%)
- Options:
- Separate with disability: Leave military, receive VA disability compensation
- Retire with disability: 20+ years OR >30% rating = medical retirement
Step 4: Appeals (if you disagree)
- Formal Board of Review
- Can argue you're fit for duty or rating is too low
ADHD Disability Ratings (VA Scale)
| Rating | Criteria | Monthly Comp (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | Diagnosis only, mild symptoms, no functional impairment | $0 (service-connected, no pay) |
| 10% | Mild symptoms, occasional difficulty with organization/focus | $171 |
| 30% | Moderate symptoms, frequent difficulty with work/relationships | $524 |
| 50% | Serious symptoms, significant impairment in work/social functioning | $1,075 |
| 70% | Severe symptoms, near-total impairment (rare for ADHD alone) | $1,716 |
Typical ratings for ADHD alone:
- Most common: 10-30%
- 50% or higher: Usually ADHD + other conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD)
Real Example: O-2 Pilot MEB
- Diagnosed ADHD, tried Strattera (failed), Wellbutrin (failed)
- Started Adderall, couldn't fly anymore
- MEB → PEB: Found unfit for aviation duties
- VA rating: 30% ADHD + 10% anxiety = 40% combined
- Outcome: Separated, $755/month VA disability, used GI Bill for MBA, now making $130K civilian
Transitioning with ADHD (VA Disability)
Filing VA Disability Claim for ADHD
When to file:
- During BDD (Benefits Delivery at Discharge) period (90-180 days before separation)
- Within 1 year of separation (highest priority)
- Anytime after separation (no time limit, but harder to prove service-connection)
Evidence needed:
- In-service diagnosis (medical records showing ADHD diagnosis)
- Treatment records (medication, therapy, provider notes)
- Nexus statement (provider letter saying ADHD is service-connected)
- Lay evidence (your statement describing symptoms and impact)
Service connection strategies:
- Direct: ADHD diagnosed during service = automatically service-connected
- Secondary: ADHD worsened by service (TBI, PTSD, high stress)
- Aggravated: Pre-service ADHD that got worse during service
Maximizing Your Rating
Document functional impairment:
- How does ADHD impact work? (missed deadlines, disorganization)
- How does ADHD impact relationships? (impulsivity, conflict)
- How does ADHD impact daily life? (finances, household management)
Get Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam:
- VA psychologist will evaluate severity
- Be honest about worst days (not best days)
- Explain how symptoms impact life, not just what symptoms you have
Real rating outcomes:
- ADHD + medication, stable = 0-10%
- ADHD + moderate impairment (job struggles, relationship issues) = 30%
- ADHD + severe impairment + comorbid depression/anxiety = 50-70%
Civilian Accommodations (ADA)
After separation, you can request accommodations:
- Extra time on tasks/tests
- Noise-canceling workspace
- Written instructions (not just verbal)
- Flexible deadlines
- Regular check-ins with supervisor
How to request (civilian job):
- Provide documentation (diagnosis, treatment records)
- Describe functional limitations
- Propose reasonable accommodations
⚠️ Warning: Civilian employers are NOT as forgiving as military. Some will discriminate (illegal but hard to prove). Weigh disclosure carefully.
Childhood ADHD Diagnosis
Pre-Service Diagnosis (Before Joining Military)
Can you join if diagnosed as child?
- Maybe. Depends on treatment history and current functioning.
DoDI 6130.03 (Medical Standards for Enlistment) criteria:
- If medicated after age 14: Usually disqualifying (needs waiver)
- If off medication for 12+ months and functioning well: Waiver possible
- If never medicated or only medicated as young child: May not need waiver
Waiver process:
- Provide all treatment records (diagnosis, medication, therapy)
- Provider letter stating you're currently stable and medication-free
- MEPS will review and decide
Honesty vs. risk:
- ⚠️ Lying on medical screening = fraudulent enlistment (grounds for discharge if discovered)
- ✅ Disclose and request waiver = legal, clean record
Diagnosed as Child, Never Disclosed to Military
If you're already in:
- Getting diagnosed now does NOT mean you lied at enlistment (ADHD can be diagnosed at any age)
- Childhood symptoms + adult diagnosis = still legitimate diagnosis
Should you worry?
- No. If you're performing well and symptoms are manageable, diagnosis is just a tool for treatment.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
❌ Mistake #1: Not Disclosing on Security Clearance Application
Result: Clearance denial or revocation for "lack of candor" (lying). Much worse than disclosing ADHD upfront.
Fix: Disclose all diagnoses, medications, and treatment on SF-86. ADHD is not disqualifying; lying is.
❌ Mistake #2: Stopping Medication Without Telling Provider
Result: Symptoms return, job performance suffers, potential MEB. Plus medication non-compliance looks bad on records.
Fix: If meds aren't working or side effects are bad, tell provider. Try different medication or dose. Don't just stop.
❌ Mistake #3: Assuming Diagnosis = Automatic Separation
Result: Avoid getting help, suffer unnecessarily, performance declines, eventually get chaptered for performance (not ADHD itself).
Fix: Diagnosis does NOT equal separation for most jobs. Get evaluated, get treated, protect your career by addressing the problem.
❌ Mistake #4: Not Documenting Treatment for VA Claim
Result: Harder to prove service connection, lower disability rating, less compensation.
Fix: Keep copies of all medical records, treatment notes, medication lists. File BDD claim 90-180 days before separation.
❌ Mistake #5: Believing Stimulants = Automatic Loss of All Jobs
Result: Avoiding necessary treatment, trying to "tough it out," worsening symptoms and performance.
Fix: Most military jobs allow stimulants. Only aviation, special ops, subs, dive status have restrictions. If in those fields, try non-stimulants first.
Action Steps
If You Suspect ADHD (Do This Month)
- Schedule PCM appointment (request behavioral health referral)
- Write down symptoms and examples (when started, how they impact work/life)
- Research your job's medication restrictions (are stimulants allowed?)
- Talk to trusted NCO/officer about seeking help (confidential, get perspective)
- Prepare for stigma (some leaders don't understand ADHD, stay strong)
After Diagnosis (First 90 Days)
- Start medication (if prescribed) and track effects (symptom journal)
- Try at least 2-3 medications if first doesn't work (finding right med takes time)
- Implement organizational systems (reminders, checklists, body doubling)
- Disclose on next security clearance application (if applicable)
- Document all treatment (keep copies of records)
If Facing Career Impact (Aviation, Special Ops, etc.)
- Try non-stimulant medications first (Strattera, Wellbutrin)
- Give non-stimulants 3-6 months (they take longer to work)
- Decide: Accept career change (switch to stimulants) OR manage without meds
- Work with commander and provider (plan for potential MEB/reclass)
- Consider long-term: Is staying in service worth managing unmedicated ADHD?
Approaching Separation (File VA Claim)
- File BDD claim 90-180 days before separation (visit VA office on base)
- Gather all medical records (ADHD diagnosis, treatment, medication history)
- Get nexus statement from provider ("ADHD is service-connected")
- Attend C&P exam (be honest about symptoms and functional impact)
- Consider VSO help (Veterans Service Officer—free assistance with claim)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I get kicked out if diagnosed with ADHD?
A: No, not automatically. Diagnosis alone does not trigger separation. You'll only face MEB if ADHD prevents you from performing duties despite treatment.
Q: Can I deploy with ADHD?
A: Yes, if your medication is allowed in your career field and you're stable. Bring 90-day supply of medication (coordinate with provider and deployment pharmacy).
Q: Will ADHD diagnosis affect my promotion chances?
A: Not directly. What matters is job performance. If ADHD is treated and you're performing well, no impact. If untreated ADHD causes poor performance, that affects promotions (not the diagnosis itself).
Q: Can I take Adderall during deployment?
A: Yes, if your job allows stimulants. Bring full supply, store securely (controlled substance). Some combat zones have limited pharmacy access, so plan ahead.
Q: What if my commander doesn't believe in ADHD?
A: ADHD is a medical diagnosis, not an opinion. Continue treatment through medical channels. Commander can't override medical provider. If discrimination occurs, contact IG.
Q: Can I join if I was diagnosed as a child?
A: Maybe. If you've been off medication 12+ months and functioning well, waiver possible. Disclose at MEPS, don't lie.
Q: Will ADHD medication show up on drug test?
A: Yes, stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin) will show up as amphetamines. BUT if you have valid prescription, you're protected. Inform drug testing personnel of your prescription.
Q: Can I get a waiver to stay on flight status with ADHD medication?
A: Rarely. Stimulants are generally disqualifying for aviation. Non-stimulants (Strattera, Wellbutrin) may be waivered case-by-case. Discuss with flight surgeon.
Q: What is the VA disability rating for ADHD?
A: Typically 10-30% for ADHD alone. 50-70% if combined with other conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD). Rating based on functional impairment, not diagnosis alone.
Q: Can I use ADHD as reason for administrative separation?
A: Only if ADHD is severe enough to trigger MEB and you're found unfit. Can't just claim ADHD to get out—must be medically documented and evaluated.
Official Sources
- DoD Instruction 6130.03 (Medical Standards): https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodi/613003p.pdf (Last verified: 2026-01-15)
- TRICARE Mental Health: https://www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth (Last verified: 2026-01-15)
- VA Disability Ratings (Mental Health): https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/illnesses-within-VA-presumptive-guidelines/mental-health-conditions/ (Last verified: 2026-01-15)
- Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) Process: https://www.med.navy.mil/Navy-Medicine-Operational-Training-Center/Medical-Evaluation-Board-Information/ (Last verified: 2026-01-15)
- Security Clearance Adjudicative Guidelines: https://www.dni.gov/files/NCSC/documents/Regulations/SEAD-4-Adjudicative-Guidelines-U.pdf (Last verified: 2026-01-15)
Resources:
- Military OneSource (free counseling, coaching): 1-800-342-9647
- CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD): https://chadd.org
- ADDitude Magazine (ADHD strategies): https://www.additudemag.com
Related Guides
- TRICARE Mental Health Coverage Guide - Therapy, medications, referrals, costs, coverage limits
- Medical Separation Guide (MEB/PEB) - Process, timeline, ratings, appeals, disability retirement
- VA Disability Claims for Mental Health - Filing process, evidence, C&P exam, ratings, appeals
- Security Clearance Mental Health Disclosure - What to disclose, adjudication process, denial appeals
Need mental health resources? Explore our Mental Health Resource Directory for military-specific providers, crisis support, and treatment options.
Last updated: January 15, 2026. Garrison Ledger is an independent resource and is not affiliated with the Department of Defense. All information verified against official DoD, TRICARE, and VA guidance. Contact support@garrisonledger.com with corrections.