My story:

The pandemic came and a number of other stressors aswell( some from work and outside of work). I began struggling with work and struggling at home.  I fell into depression and anxiety. I got help. I was seeing a therapist and taking meds , but I kept feeling like something more was going on. 

I had an evaluation that took a few hours with a psychologist without a doubt I have ADHD. 

After my diagnosis I kept seeing a social worker and tried different combinations of medications some with severe side effects. However we are not allowed to take stimulant meds in the USCG.

So people like me are forced to choose between our mental health and our career.

 

Please review this article published by ADDtuide magazine below. The Author has a PH.D and explains why this needs to change 

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.additudemag.com/uncle-sam-doesnt-want-you/amp/

To quote the author,

Why ADHD Restrictions for Military Service Are Unfair

"As a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience working with individuals with ADHD, I say that the military’s policies effectively cut off a population of talented, capable, and intelligent people from a tremendously valuable career path

 

Military service is often an excellent option for people with ADHD, many of whom do well in highly structured environments and thrive on activity, which military service delivers in spades."

The Coast Guard academy website list ADHD/ADD as a disqualifying condition

https://www.uscga.edu/common-disqualifying-medical-conditions/ 

Attention deficit, hyperactivity disorder or learning disability such as dyslexia, which interferes with perceptual or academic skills past the 14th birthday. Use of medications to reduce symptoms of ADD or ADHD within the previous 24 months.

(The same goes for The enlisted side of the service)

Take note: doctors say Stimulants clear a person's system in 1 week. So the 24 month wait doesn't make sense anyway.

So Change Policy to allow people with ADHD/ADD to receive proper treatment and proper medicine including stimulants while on active duty.

So please sign and share this petition. I want to make things better for the next person who wants to join the Coast Guard. I love my job and the people I work with, but there's room for improvement to maintain a Redy, Relevant, and Responsive Coast Guard.

Perhaps this could be the beginning of mental health care reform for the armed services.

Thank you for your time,

Semper Patatus