topic Re: Joining the ADF with mental health in Young people

Joining the ADF with mental health

Guest_45257283 — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:36:13 GMT

I have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and have always wanted to join the ADF. I was wondering if after a certain amount of time without meds and after seeing a psychologist would I still be unable to join or would they allow me to considering I don’t need the medication and would be deemed mentally stable by the psychologist.

Re: Joining the ADF with mental health

white knight — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 04:59:11 GMT

Hi, welcome

The ADF have very stringent mental and physical hoops to jump before they consider your suitability. A history of psychiatry or mood disorders usually rules you out including bipolar.

As I joined 53 years ago it might have changed.

Contact them direct. There are many other careers that might suit in other sectors eg- customs, Police both state and federal, coast guard, ambulance, fire, and so on.

I'd recommend not to become too fixated on any organisation as it can leave you disappointed especially those that have such strong entry requirements.

I hope that helps

TonyWK

Re: Joining the ADF with mental health

HamSolo01 — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 22:47:56 GMT

The entry requirements are very strict because of situations they put you in and if you had a history of bipolar or even just presenting to the ED even once for ideation then they'd see this as a red flag.

It isn't because you're bad or wrong in any way, but because certain experiences in the military can trigger reactions that put you or others in danger.

The culture in the military is very hyper masculine even for the women that join. It is perhaps not a good idea to go near it if you had a history of mental ill health.

The idea of discipline and order appealed to Mr when I was younger (and free dental coz my teeth are up s***s creek). But there are many other ways to achieve these sorts of things. Have you considered department of defence? Adf non combat roles? Volunteering or even reserve army? I think reserves have different requirements.

I realised I hate following orders for the sake of it and the idea of being yelled at made me dry reach. That said I respect people who join it. It's just not my cup of tea.

That said if the proverbial hit the fan then I'd happily defend Australia - sign me up! But we are far far away from that. Thank God!