anxiety about relicensing as a RN/past substance abuse

[noshame4me]

Hello everyone, I use to practice as an ER RN for five years. I have suffered with anxiety and depression virtually since adolescence. My time in healthcare was cut short due to this and my failure to cope in life without numbing my pain. I lost my license for reasons other than drug use/abuse for a period of five years. I now am resitting for my RN boards (as proof of competency) and am wondering about how to respond to questions of use/abuse. I think that I recall from my previous state a question about treatment for such, and whether I had any CURRENT issue that would affect patient safety.

I've been sober from using my drug of choice for over a year now. I went to NA, obtained personal therapy/counseling, and am at a different place in life spiritually; I feel healthy. I realize honesty is imperative to living clean, however, I also know that "he who tells all he knows is a fool". I have read some posts in here and I do not want to beat a dead-horse, but I'd welcome hearing anyone's experience that may resemble that of my own. Thank you so much for your time and wisdom shared here.

[RNMSN51]

I have not been in your specific situation but I know you will get some responses from those that have been. I just wanted to welcome you and tell you to hold your head up high. You have obviously done a lot of work to get where you are and it will pay off in the end.

[noshame4me]

Thank you,I deeply appreciate your kindness.