Summary
A government contractor receiving treatment to prevent a recurrence of depression is worried that the condition will lead to denial of a required security clearance. They ask whether responsible use of prescribed medication will count against them.
The answer explicitly says it does not know how the clearance decision will be made and provides no policy or legal determination.
It offers reassurance that depression is a treatable illness rather than a personal weakness and that seeking preventative treatment is not a reason for shame.
Question
Reader · Identity withheldI am currently employed at a government contractor in which a top secret security clearance is mandatory. I have no issues with getting the clearance except one: I have in the past have had problems with depression and currently am seeking help to prevent a relapse.
I am also taking prescription medication as ordered.
I am TERRIFIED that my problems in the past will come back to haunt me. I was able to obtain a Secret clearance in 1997 with no problems. I have never did drugs, committed a felony, declared bankruptcy or have ever betrayed my country in any way.
This may not be your area of expertise but I need to know; Will I be denied a clearance?
Answer
Mark Vigil Dombeck, Ph.D.I don’t know the answer to your question. I don’t have the right clearance (grin!). But, all kidding aside, it would seem quite unfair for you to be denied the ability to serve based on your having a well researched chronic illness for which you are receiving responsible preventative treatment.
I would hope that they would not hold this against you. Depression is nothing to be ashamed about. Depression is a treatable illness. It is not a ‘weakness’ any more than having a chronic health problem such as diabetes is a weakness.
Subject matter expert
Simone Hoermann Ph.D.
Personality disorders, anxiety, and depression
View experience