D232.40Mental Health

Any history of substance-related and addictive disorders

What This Code Means

Receiving DQ code D232.40 means the DoDMERB physician reviewer determined that your medical history or exam findings related to any history of substance-related and addictive disorders do not currently meet Department of Defense accession standards as defined in DoDI 6130.03.

This does not end your candidacy. Many conditions flagged under this code are waiverable. The next step is understanding the exact standard that applies to your situation and whether a waiver request is appropriate for your commissioning source.

Official Regulation Text

From DoDI 6130.03-V1, “Medical Standards for Military Service,” Change 6 (February 3, 2026)

Section 6.28.v — Learning, Psychiatric, and Behavioral Disorders

“Any history of substance-related and addictive disorders (except using caffeine or tobacco).”

Section 6.28.e — Learning, Psychiatric, and Behavioral Disorders

“History of bipolar and related disorders (formerly identified as mood disorders not otherwise specified) including, but not limited to, cyclothymic disorders and affective psychoses.”

Section 6.28.s — Learning, Psychiatric, and Behavioral Disorders

“History of somatic symptoms and related disorders.”

Section 6.28.b — Learning, Psychiatric, and Behavioral Disorders

“History of learning disorders after the 14th birthday, including, but not limited to, dyslexia, if any of the following apply: (1) With a recommended or prescribed Individualized Education Program, 504 Plan, or work accommodations after the 14th birthday; (2) With a history of comorbid mental disorders; or (3) With documentation of adverse academic, occupational, or work performance.”

Section 6.28.g — Learning, Psychiatric, and Behavioral Disorders

“History of a single adjustment disorder if treated or symptomatic within the previous 6 months, or any history of chronic (lasting longer than 6 months) or recurrent episodes of adjustment disorders.”

Waiver Outlook for Mental Health Conditions

High Likelihoodif no symptoms or treatment within the past year and no academic or work impairments are documented

Key Factors for Waiver Approval

Cessation of medication use for at least 12 months
Strong academic performance without accommodations (no IEP or 504 Plan)
Positive evaluations from teachers or coaches indicating no impairment
No comorbid conditions such as anxiety or depression

Documentation Tip

Independent psychological and cognitive testing confirming normal executive functioning can be one of the strongest pieces of evidence in an ADHD waiver case.

This condition is covered in depth in The Ultimate DoDMERB Handbook by LTC Kirkland & Capt Dach — including real success scenarios, remedial exam strategies, and the complete waiver playbook. Get the handbook →

Read Our Full Guide on Mental Health Conditions

Learn how DoDMERB evaluates mental health conditions, common waiver scenarios, documentation tips, and what to expect throughout the process.

Read the mental health guide