| | The Army issued waivers to more than 1,000 recruits who had been diagnosed and treated for mood disorders and 95 more with a history of self-mutilation over 13 months ending last fall, according to data obtained by USA TODAY. The acceptance of new soldiers with a history of serious behavioral-health issues, some of which can be lifelong challenges, came at a time when the Army struggled to meet its recruiting goals and was under sharp criticism from Sen. John McCain for accepting any recruits who had mutilated themselves. Last week, Army Secretary Mark Esper indicated that the Army issues waivers only for mental health issues that have been resolved, or upon further review, were misdiagnosed.
| FOR MORE ON THIS STORY, GO TO: |
|
| |
