Can You become a Nurse with a history of depresion with psychotic feautures?

[honeyforasalteyfish]

It is well under control. I have not had a psychotic episode in years. Not since before I was diagnosed. I had no idea depression could cause this until it happened to me.

It was undoubtedly the worst thing that ever happened to me. I would like to get over it, and move on.

All the research I have done suggests it is possible.

Am I wrong?

[poppycat, ADN, BSN]

I have bipolar disorder also. I've been a nurse for 38 years & have worked nights the entire time. Like others have said, if your condition is well controlled & you take care of yourself, there's no reason why you can't do this.

[Tenebrae, BSN, RN]

I have major depressive disorder and have been working as an RN for the last four years.

Its more than possible.

Self care is one of the most important things that you need to learn

[Tenebrae, BSN, RN]

@organizedchaos, I am sorry that you felt insulted by my comment, it was not my intention to offend. I strongly agree that people with a mental health diagnosis can work and lead normal lives. The research studies on shift workers show there are elevated health risks, one of them being an increased risk of mental health problems.

The problem with evidence is that there will always be people who dont fit it

I work shift work with no issues on my mental health.

[honeyforasalteyfish]

I have major depressive disorder and have been working as an RN for the last four years.

Its more than possible.

Self care is one of the most important things that you need to learn

Old post tenebrae, but I just noticed this thread had more comments.

Yes I agree self care is of major importance.

I have learned that first hand, and I am learning to adjust to it.

Its taken longer, and been more frustrating than I would have liked.

I never get as happy as I used to, but the deep valleys of depression are virtually gone.

Living in denial that I had a problem, not wanting to admit it for the longest time caused a cycle of regret.

So I started taking more care about my mental health, and I believe I have reached a great balance in achieving it.

Started work as a CNA recently, and so far things are going great!

Still pursuing that RN, but I am glad to have broken into the medical field even if I am still going to college.

I love what I do, I feel like I get better everyday, and I have noticed I have become very good at eliciting cooperation.

Many of the more "difficult", by that I mean difficult to get to cooperate not bad temperament patients already seem to like me.

My bosses are already assigning me to take care of residents I seem to have easily formed a bond with.

One thing I will say for myself in a positive manner, and I can say this with absolute belief it's true I have no problem with empathy. I also find its very easy for me to express it.

I seem to have a knack for putting people at ease in awkward situations, and so far it has served me well.

Its also been extremely emotionally rewarding to be liked by so many of my fellow staff, and those I care for so quickly.

My favorite joke had been, I know this isn't pleasant for you that isn't why we do it, it's so you can be as clean, and as comfortable as possible. When it's over I will leave you alone, and you won't have to see my ugly face again for sometime. This seems to go over well in certain situations as it often elicts smiles and laughter. I have no problem that it is at my expense as long as the job gets done.

Thanks!