Summary
A 36-year-old federal contractor was denied a security clearance due to unmitigated concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The denial stemmed from the applicant's history of bipolar disorder, noncompliance with treatment recommendations, and a lack of credible testimony regarding his mental health history.
The applicant failed to fully disclose the extent of his mental health issues, including multiple hospitalizations and outpatient treatments for bipolar disorder. In March 2006, he attempted suicide during a manic episode, resulting in hospitalization and a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and chronic depression. Despite being advised to follow up with a mental health program, he did not comply. In July 2006, he was again hospitalized for suicidal thoughts, having stopped his medication, and signed himself out against medical advice. He did not seek further treatment until July 2007, after completing his security clearance application.
In October 2007, a doctor diagnosed him with bipolar disorder, prescribed medication, and considered him stable, with a good prognosis if he continued treatment. However, the doctor also noted that the condition could impair judgment if treatment recommendations were not followed. The denial was based on the applicant's failure to follow treatment advice, his non-credible testimony indicating deliberate non-disclosure, and his inadequate treatment of multiple bipolar disorder diagnoses.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- Applicant failed to follow treatment advice related to his diagnosed bipolar disorder.
- Applicant's testimony was found not credible, indicating a deliberate failure to disclose mental health issues.
- Multiple diagnoses of bipolar disorder were not adequately addressed or treated by the applicant.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 28(a)appliedBehavior That Casts Doubt on an Individual’s Judgment, Reliability, or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 28(b)appliedAn Opinion by a Duly Qualified Mental Health Professional That the Individual Has a Condition That May Impair Judgment, Reliability, or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 28(c)appliedThe Individual Has Failed to Follow Treatment Advice Related to a Diagnosed Emotional, Mental, or Personality Condition
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 15, 2010
- Answer filedApr 2, 2010
- Hearing heldJan 12, 2011
- Decision dateJan 31, 2011
Cite For
- Failure to Disclose Mental Health Issues Under Guideline E
- Noncompliance with Treatment for Bipolar Disorder Under Guideline I
- Credibility Issues in Applicant Testimony Regarding Mental Health History