Becoming a nurse with an anxiety disorder

[elgibb]

Hello!

I've struggled with an anxiety disorder every since I was in middle school but I've always wanted to be a nurse. Do you think it's a good idea for me to go into nursing? My anxiety's not as bad as it used to be and I've learned to cope with it. I mostly just get anxious now and haven't really had a panic attack. I was also in two car crashes and my anxiety was fine, I was actually helping someone else through a panic attack in one of them. what do you guys think? Is there anyone on here that's a nurse now and has anxiety? Maybe there are different fields of nursing that you recommend I go into? Do employers do a mental health evaluation causing my anxiety disorder to affect my chances of getting employed? Becoming a nurse is my dream and I really don't want my anxiety to affect that.

[Scottishtape]

I have had periods of my life where I've had severe anxiety, and I've been successful as a nurse for 12 years so far.

There are areas in nursing that will exacerbate your anxiety, and other areas that won't. You just have to be cognizant of those areas and avoid them.

Example: there are two main hospital systems around me. For whatever reason, one of the hospital systems causes me to be really tense and increases my anxiety just stepping in there, while the other allows me to feel calm.

I chose to be employed at the hospital where I was able to be calm in, even though it meant I would have slightly less pay.

Everyone has a "thing". Be mindful of yourself and make choices that keep you comfortable. That's the beauty of nursing, you have SO many options.

If at any point, your anxiety becomes too much to handle, never be afraid of seeking out some help. There's nothing wrong with getting some support.

Good luck!

[elgibb]

Thank you for your reply! :)

[faith010]

I have pretty bad anxiety. I do not take any medications. From my own personal experience, nursing has intensified my anxiety to new heights to the point where I get physical symptoms such as chest tightness, chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, choking feeling, shaky, sweating, flushing. I had to change shifts to avoid these horrible feelings. Like the person above me said, at least there are different options in nursing. I definitely do not want to discourage you.

[HaleyRoseRN]

I'm a nurse & I have generalized anxiety disorder. I was diagnosed about 6 years ago & do take medication for it.

Please don't be discouraged. You can be a great nurse, enjoy nursing, and manage your anxiety. You will find what works for you & what doesn't - for me, for example, I struggle with medical surgical units & the ER setting. Sends my anxiety through the roof! But I love ICU and step-down. I also have found ways to stay calm when necessary, like deep breathing. Being a nurse with anxiety is 110% doable. :)

Good luck to you!

[Orion81RN]

I have been highly surprised when talking with other nurses to learn they too suffer from anxiety issues. You would never know it, and appear cool and calm in emergent situations, myself included. You don't know what you are capable of until you try it. Good luck!