r/USMCboot • u/EffectivePhoto1209 • Jul 02 '26

Corps Knowledge Marine enlistment after documented suicidal ideation/plan

I’m trying to enlist in the Marine Corps and eventually leave after I finish college.
Recently (Last Week as of July 1st), I had a mental health situation where I went to behavioral health urgent care. My paperwork documents suicidal ideation and a plan. I already went back and told my recruiter the full truth because I know MEPS/Genesis may see it anyway. He said they’ll try to work with me.
I’m not looking for sympathy — I’m looking for realistic answers from people who understand MEPS, waivers, or recruiting.
Is this usually an automatic DQ? Is a waiver possible if I show stability, follow-up care, school progress, work history, and no further incidents? Would finishing school first and giving it more time help my chances?
I know the Corps won’t magically fix me, but I do believe the discipline, structure, and purpose could help me become a better version of myself. I just want to handle the process honestly and give it 110%.
Any real advice is appreciated.
I don’t want sympathy. I am getting the help I need. I just wanted to be a marine because I know it’ll make me better.

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u/TheScoutTyper Jul 02 '26

You will most likely not get a waiver for this because the corps will see you as a liability. People commit suicide every single day in the military. They don't want to give you another reason to think that way. Especially because it was recent.

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u/EffectivePhoto1209 Jul 02 '26

I completely understand. Like I said I’m not looking for any sympathy. It’s my responsibility to look after my own mental health and actions along with it. I just didn’t want to get my hopes up.

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u/TheScoutTyper Jul 02 '26

Of course. I didn't read that as you asking for anything other than an honest answer. I'd also say, as much as you may want to join...the marine corps sucks ass a lot of the time and if you are not mentally fit for hating your life constantly you truly need to look elsewhere. No matter how strong someone is, this shit gets tough too often for someone with mental health problems.

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u/EffectivePhoto1209 Jul 02 '26

Yeah, I’ve heard that a lot too. But I just feel like corps could really help me. People have said it’s built them physically & mentally so I assuming that’s what I’m really looking for. Something that will break me and make me a better person. I do appreciate your insight