A New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) applicant who ticked 'yes' to indicate a previous history of self-harm, was told she was "medically unfit" for the position.
Naia Gilbert was told to stop the application process before she could give any more details.
The 23-year old applied online last month. During the application, she was asked to complete a health check - which included yes or no questions about her mental health.
"I wanted to be as honest as I could be, let them know about a psychologist, I have dealt with anxiety/depression, and also let them know I self-harmed," Gilbert told Newshub.
"It was just a yes or no answer - I ticked yes."
The Defence Recruiting Medical Board responded to Gilbert's application, telling her she was "medically unfit" for entry.
The letter wrote, "you have ticked yes to a question regarding self harm, so it is in your best interests that we do not continue your application."
"We regret to advise you that you are considered medically unfit for entry into the NZDF based on the above information. All candidates must be medically fit to deploy nationally and internationally, be capable of living in harsh remote locations, without risk to their health."
Gilbert responded offering references from a psychologist and contact details for her counsellors.
The Navy recruiter said she would need to refer to her case higher.
"I pretty much took that as in, well there's like really no chance," Gilbert said.
- Coping with coronavirus: Seven strategies to ease your family's fears
- Sailor facing raft of charges relating to a banned substance
- Soldiers burned in training exercise at Linton Military Camp
- Big influx of army recruits amid coronavirus pandemic
- New review finds a 'code of silence' among the problems dooming plan to eliminate sexual violence in our military
The Mental Health Foundation says immediately saying 'no' without further investigation is the wrong approach.
"That's absolutely discrimination and stigma in action, on the basis of a persons mental health and that's just not ok," said Mental Health Foundation Chief Executive Shaun Robinson.
NZDF says while it can't comment on individual cases, candidates who disclose a history of diagnosed mental health or self harm are considered on a case by case basis.
"NZDF service personnel are placed in stressful situations both during training and on deployment. NZDF must ensure that any past mental health issues are not re-triggered by stressful training and occupational events during their service lives."
"We are unable to make a comment on a specific person's application due to privacy reasons."
Where to find help and support:
Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or online chat
Samaritans - 0800 726 666
Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
