I recently got prescribed to zoloft and klonopin for my anxiety, I’ve decided not to even take the zoloft because I am not depressed and never have been, even though its FDA approved to help anxiety i do not want to be on antidepressants. I still believe I am a very mentally strong person and would make a great soldier, I want to follow my father and grandfathers footsteps and serve my country. Please no negative responses I dont need to hear peoples bullsh*t. Thank you.

The current guidelines for enlisting require that you be off of medication for one year with a doctors statement stating you are stable/functioning normally without them at this time.

I’ve been doing alot of research, and I think I may have Social Anxiety Disorder, or at least some form of it. I know there’s something more to it than me just being shy. Anyway, I don’t know who to approach. My regular doctor? Or a psychiatrist? I really just don’t know, and also does anyone know how they go about helping you deal with it/ overcoming it? Thanks for any help!

Social anxiety disorder is mostly a psychological problem so I would advise you to go to a psychologist. You can significantly reduce your social anxiety through a variety of interesting strategies without medications. Control Your Reaction to Fear - Overcoming these reactions is as simple as learning relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and self hypnosis; Prepare Yourself Mentally - Rather than let your fear of embarrassment or humiliation overwhelm you in social settings, role play a few scenarios in advance to make sure you are well prepared for any challenging situations. If you are prepared for things that can go wrong and you know what to do and say in those awkward moments, you will have the confidence to keep calm and handle the situation well; Face Your Fears - Sometimes, our social fears does not stem from a lack of social skills, but rather from a sense of insecurity and a lack of esteem. By stepping outside your comfort zone and placing yourself in uncomfortable situations such as speaking in front of your peers or complimenting someone, and doing it repeatedly, the easier it becomes. Soon you will soon realize that there is actually nothing to fear from most people and you may even enjoy and laugh about it; Positive Visualization And Affirmation - The way you think strongly influences the way you feel. The realization that only you can control how you think, and how those thoughts control you, is an important step in overcoming social anxiety. When those thoughts, such as “I’m going to fail” or “they will make fun of me” begin making their way into your mind, challenge those negativity and replace them with more realistic, calmer thoughts. Tell yourself that you are capable, confident, and wonderful to combat those negative thoughts. Positive visualization and affirmation are helpful in motivating you along the road to curing yourself of this problem and improving your self worth. Some people have found reading various Self Help Article to be of benefit in overcoming their Anxiety like this one I posted below.