Posted on 03/11/2006 6:19:26 PM PST by tlj18
Hello,
I've been searching and searching the Internet, but I don't quite have my answer. I was hoping someone could help me out.
Basically, my life is in a major rut and it's going nowhere. I recently turned 24. I have social anxiety and other mental issues - but I am trying very hard to recover from them. I want out of my job, but I have no idea where to go from here. Like I said, my life is going absolutely nowhere. But yesterday, an idea popped into my head: what about joining the military (probably the Army)? I've done over 12 hours of research since last night...
But my question is - could someone like me, recovering from social anxiety, survive the Army? I don't think I'll ever reach the bravado (or Alpha Male) stereotype of the military, though. Is everyone in the Army drunk with bravado and the like, or not?
I'm starting to wonder if the military is for me. I think I must leave my parents' house for me to really mature and to truly recover from social anxiety, but by any other means would be artificial, I think. Basic Training/Boot Camp does look a bit intimidating and scary, but it does seem that most/a lot of recruits are of a similar opinion. But I'm really asking about the actual duty time. It's not like I can just leave if I can't stand it.
I just really need to restat my life, and I'm wondering if this might be the best way available.
Any thoughts?
IB4TZ
If you have "Issues" the military is probably not the way to solve them.
Are these "Issues" Diagnosed by a professional or self diagnosed via Dr. Phil and the other personality deficit leaches out there?
Drop and give me 40. I will count the cadence, you will count the reps.
View the movie STRIPES
Why not? Just drive down to your local recruiter and take it from there. If you're stuck in a rut, the military is one sure way out. You might want to consider all of the branches of the military though, not just the Army.
"could someone like me, recovering from social anxiety, survive the Army?"
There's only one way to find out and that is to join. I'm sure your drill sergeant will council you.
If you have mental issues, and couldn't function well in school or a job, you shouldn't join the military service.
They have too much to do to babysit anyone.
If you get involved in drugs or have a problem following orders, you will be discharged with a less than honorable discharge.
That will just make things worse for you.
Don't be a weenie; join the Marines.
Speaking as a retired Senior NCO, and failed recruiter, if you have been diagnosed, you may not even be able to get in.
As Retired Senior NCO, there are enough leadership challenges with stable troops. Troops with "Issues" detract from the ability to properly care for the troops that don't have "Issues"
What is "social anxiety"? As far as "bravado" goes the only soldiers with bravado are a few rear echelon mo fo, and the soon to be KIA.
The military is not the place for people with "social anxiety" or other mental maladies. I suggest that you join the Peace Corps.
Some of these replies are flippant and harsh, and that's to be expected. But if you are sincere, I would say this:
If you don't act on it and give the Army a try, you'll never know. You might spend the rest of your life wondering "what if?". Go for it, you'll be a better man for it. Regards.
In this day and age?
When every second kid is diagnosed with ADD, I can hardly imagine this being a barrier - assuming that there aren't other barriers.
We're talking about Social Anxiety Disorder here, as I understand it, a more or less newly discovered disorder treated with low dose (10-20MG daily) of Paroxetine or another SSRI.
"Social Anxiety Disorder", as I understand it, basically means "shyness plus."
re: "social anxiety"
Dr. Drill Sergeant will cure than in about 10 minutes.
I take it we're supposed to be impressed?
What the f is social anxiety?
Just start an exercise program - get in good shape BEFORE you join, then you'll have fewer worries.
I won't even talk to a recruiter if I can't resolve my mental issues first. I wouldn't sign up probably no earlier than the end of the year.
They have too much to do to babysit anyone.
I wouldn't need babysitting. I'm not going to cry my eyes out. I rarely ever cry!
If you get involved in drugs or have a problem following orders, you will be discharged with a less than honorable discharge.
I have absolutely no problem with either!
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