Bipolar and in the military?

Question

I enlisted in the national guard back in June, had been having mood-swings since way back, but never considered myself bipolar.

I was diagnosed today though as bipolar. Knowing my disorder, I don't think the military would be best for me or I would be best for the military. How can I get the ball rolling for a medical discharge? Do I need to get a lawyer because I am the one asking for a discharge?

(Do I need to wait until my doctor gives me my prescription for my disorder?) How fast could this discharge be done?

Answer 1

You don't need a lawyer. Get the report from your therapist who diagnosed you. Check with your unit. Get examined by military doctors and wait for them to write a medical evaluation board (MEB) report which will get you discharged for having a pre-existing mental health condition which should have disqualified you in the first place. The source below is the medical standard for your condition.  

Answer 2

If you are enlisted then you need to meet with a medical officer and bring your paperwork. You will need to know their official policy on these types of disorders. People live quite successful lives with this diagnosis as long as they take their medication correctly.

Answer 3

Try the meds and see if you can keep it under control. If not, talk to your CO. No need for a lawyer.

Answer 4

Get a second opinion.  Too many doctors are on the Bipolar and Autism bandwagon these days.  Did a psychiatrist diagnose you?  With something this severe you really need to get a second opinion.  

Get your medical documentation and bring it to your recruiter or whoever is in charge of you at RSP.

Answer 5

I don't recommend this. My third cousin was in a similar predictament. He, while on an inspection tried to stick a ballpoint pen into the inspecting Colonels neck. The MPs brought him down fast and he started simulating masturbation all the while. He was discharged in 16 days.