Summary
A 31-year-old U.S. Army veteran and systems administrator was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). Allegations included the applicant discontinuing prescribed medications for insomnia and depressive symptoms against medical advice, and an incident in July 2017 where he donned a bulletproof vest and grabbed a shotgun due to a perceived threat that was not present. A psychologist in March 2019 diagnosed him with chronic PTSD and recurrent major depressive disorder, expressing concern that untreated symptoms could impact judgment and reliability, and gave a guarded prognosis.
However, the judge found that the applicant effectively managed his mental health issues, including anxiety and insomnia, and demonstrated responsible actions in seeking treatment. He successfully showed that his psychological conditions were under control and did not impair his judgment or reliability. The applicant self-referred for treatment and utilized coping strategies without medication during his deployment.
Crucially, the judge determined that the applicant's conduct during the home incident was reasonable and not indicative of poor judgment. Ultimately, the applicant was granted eligibility for access to classified information.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant successfully demonstrated that his psychological conditions were under control and did not impair his judgment or reliability.
- He self-referred for treatment and utilized coping strategies without the need for medication during his deployment.
- The judge found the applicant's conduct during a home invasion attempt to be reasonable and not indicative of poor judgment.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 28(b)raisedOpinion by a Qualified Mental Health Professional
- AG ¶ 28(a)rejectedBehavior That Casts Doubt on JudgmentThe judge found no evidence of behavior that cast doubt on the applicant's current judgment.
- AG ¶ 28(d)rejectedFailure to Follow a Prescribed Treatment PlanThe applicant took prompt steps to seek alternative treatment when necessary.
- AG ¶ 29(a)appliedCondition Is Controllable with Treatment
- AG ¶ 29(c)appliedRecent Opinion Indicates Condition Is in Remission
- AG ¶ 29(e)appliedNo Indication of a Current Problem
Key Rule Quoted
“An administrative judge must consider all available and reliable information about the person, past and present, favorable and unfavorable.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJun 10, 2019
- Answer filedJul 6, 2019
- Hearing heldSep 24, 2019
- Decision dateNov 12, 2019
Cite For
- Evaluation of Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Importance of Self-referral for Treatment
- Whole-person Concept in Security Clearance Determinations