Summary
A 30-year-old male applicant was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The Statement of Reasons detailed a history of depression and anxiety dating back to 2008, including a suicide attempt in February 2014 that led to a diagnosis of major depressive disorder. These facts raised disqualifying conditions under AG ¶ 28(a), AG ¶ 28(b), and AG ¶ 28(c).
However, the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns by demonstrating significant improvement in his mental health. His psychiatrist confirmed that his condition is currently asymptomatic and does not impair his judgment, reliability, or trustworthiness. The applicant has consistently adhered to his treatment plan, showing substantial progress.
Furthermore, strong references from colleagues and community members supported his trustworthiness and reliability. The administrative judge concluded that the applicant's mental health condition no longer poses a security risk, leading to the decision to grant the security clearance. Mitigating conditions applied included AG ¶ 29(a), AG ¶ 29(b), AG ¶ 29(c), AG ¶ 29(d), and AG ¶ 29(e).
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant's mental health condition is currently asymptomatic and does not impair his judgment, reliability, or trustworthiness, as confirmed by his psychiatrist.
- The applicant has consistently complied with his treatment plan and has shown significant improvement in his mental health.
- Strong references from colleagues and community members support the applicant's trustworthiness and reliability.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 28(a)raisedBehavior That Casts Doubt on Judgment, Stability, Reliability, or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 28(b)raisedOpinion by a Qualified Mental Health Professional Indicating Impairment
- AG ¶ 28(c)raisedInvoluntary Inpatient Hospitalization
- AG ¶ 29(a)appliedCondition Is Controllable with Treatment and Compliance Is Demonstrated
- AG ¶ 29(b)appliedVoluntary Counseling or Treatment Program with Favorable Prognosis
- AG ¶ 29(c)appliedRecent Opinion Indicating Condition Is Under Control or in Remission
- AG ¶ 29(d)appliedPast Condition Was Temporary and Resolved
- AG ¶ 29(e)appliedNo Indication of Current Problem
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 15, 2019
- Answer filedApr 4, 2019
- Hearing heldAug 28, 2019
- Decision dateNov 5, 2019
Cite For
- Mitigation of Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Importance of Ongoing Treatment and Community Support in Security Clearance Cases
- Whole-person Concept in Evaluating Security Clearance Eligibility