Mental illness in Nursing school.

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I was diagnosed with a mental illness for the first time in Nursing school. In fact, I had sit out a year because I was in a psych ward. It makes me feel extremely guilty. I will start my final year for BSN in fall. Are there any nursing students/nurses that suffer from mental illness? Are you on medication?

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Specializes in psych/dementia.

I am on medication for depression currently. In the past, I have been medicated for depression, OCD, and PTSD. I was hospitalized with anorexia nervosa before starting undergrad and actually ended up starting a week into classes, having also missed orientation. Once the PTSD got under control, the anorexia no longer served a purpose. Thankfully it was more a way to cope with eating related flashbacks than my self image being distorted. Though the latter happened once my weight got low enough.

I consider myself lucky, in a way, to have experienced "that side" of the medical/nursing world as I can better relate to patients who have been through, or are going through, similar situations. Nothing to be feel guilty about. Everyone copes differently. Best of luck to you this fall!

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I have a panic disorder and I take klonipin.

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I've struggled with depression for years, and I currently take medication for ADD as well. I know many other students have mental health problems as well. Nothing to feel guilty about, especially if you are doing the right thing and treating it! In the end I think it will help you to be a better nurse, especially to the many patients you will encounter who also struggle with mental health problems.

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Specializes in Endocrinology, hopefully.

I take lexipro for anxiety/mild depression and seroquel as needed (They were prescribed as a sleep aid-- it's rare that I take one because even the lowest dosage makes me draggy for about 24 hours).

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did you say you take lexipro as needed as well or were you just referring to seroquel?

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I have ADHD and depression and thought I have not been diagnosed with bipolar disorder I am almost certain that I have it. My father has bipolar disorder with schizophrenic characteristics. I am only on meds for the ADHD not for the depression but I plan on taking antidepressants soon. So many people Dr's, nurses, teachers, nursing students etc have mental illnesses. It is a lot more common than people think. I think it is important to be aware of your own mental health and seek treatment. What exactly do you feel guilty about though?

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Specializes in Endocrinology, hopefully.

Ashley, I take the lexipro daily and the seroquel when I need help sleeping. :) Sorry, I wasn't very clear in my wording!

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Okay I was JW! I was going to say wait a second... i thought you needed to take SSRIs for several weeks in order to have an effect. Do you have any side effects from lexipro?? I am interested in an antidepressant and I want a med with minimal side effects

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Specializes in Endocrinology, hopefully.

Not that I'm aware of! I was on Paxil (which I loved), but as hubby and I could potentially have another child (no medical sterilization) the doctor switched me to lexipro as a precaution. Which is good, because my son was a sneaky sperm. Haha!

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I am a nursing student, was diagnosed with depression/anxiety 9 years ago. I am currently taking celexa, my dr increased the dose today...I'm in a bad depression right now. I am glad to see others posting about their own mental illness, we are not alone! You can get through school OP, and I'm sure your own experience will make you an even better nurse :)

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