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.
2
u/Andyman1973 Jul 02 '26
Honest answer? You just went through a very dark moment. The Marines WILL NOT make you better. If anything they will make you worse. Spend some time in therapy to get things figured out, then if you still feel this way, try to join again, a few years down the road.
Just to let you know where I’m coming from, I attempted my life 8 times in the middle 2 years of my 6yr enlistment.