Disclosing Depression in A Nursing Job Interview

Nurses General Nursing

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Hi,

Do you think that if you disclosed that you suffer from depression during a nursing job interview, you wouldnt get the job?

For example, if you were applying for a psych nursing job, could you answer the question why are you interested in this field with "I've personally suffered from clnical depression and I think that I can help patients...etc?"

I love allnurses! (This is my first post but ive been coming on here for 2 years :) )

Do you have occupational health checks (prior to being offered employment) in the USA ?

In the UK, it's really not possible to hide anything like this, because the employers health section can request all relevant info from your doctor, this is a condition of employment.

From what i've heard, & read, a history of depression shouldn't be a huge problem, but I wouldn't mention it at interview. It can be discussed at the occupational health stage.

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Specializes in cardiac.
Absolutely keep as much of your personal life private as you possibly can. Not just on interviews but at school, at work. You never know who is harmless and a true friend and who wants to use information against you and exploit you.

Get into the habit now of keeping your personal life as private as possible.

EXACTLY!:wink2:

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

The others said it well; do not disclose what you need not. Your medical history is YOUR business, not theirs. As long as you can do the job, that is all they want to know.

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Specializes in PICU, Nurse Educator, Clinical Research.

Take it from someone who learned the hard way- some people can, and will, use private information against you. NEVER reveal more about your personal life than absolutely required. Even when you hear coworkers go on and on about their problems, medical issues, political views, and romantic encounters- don't follow suit. You'll regret it down the road, I promise.

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Specializes in forensic psych, corrections.

Absolutely not. Mental illness is never a selling point. Even if you think you would have more empathy for mental health patients because of your personal struggle with depression, I'd keep a tight lid on that or you might end up looking more like a potential client and less like a professional.

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Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.

jumping on the bandwagon here -- do not disclose. it'll probably come back and bite you in the butt!

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