Concerned about how my mental health history will affect my endeavors.

[FutureRNQueen]

Here is a bit of background. As a teenager and young adult I went through a period where I was hospitalized in a psychiatric hospital several times. I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder with psychotic features. Especially from ages 15-17 I said and did many things I now regret while in my psychotic state. I now disagree with the diagnosis and believe much of it was trauma based.

I'm 30 years old at this point and I have successfully completed several years of therapy, and for the past two years I have been entirely symptom free, aside from the occasional bout of anxiety. This is managed well with brief coping skills. I have also not required medication for over one year. It's been my dream for most of my life to become a nurse. For the longest time I didn't believe it was ever possible because of my mental health issues. But recently I gathered up the courage to register for school (health science major on the path way to nursing school at a community college). I know it's just the beginning and I likely won't graduate for another 4 odd years. However, I'm very concerned that the past will hinder my success.

I have no qualms about my ability to serve others safely and effectively. I also know I'm not legally required to disclose my history, but when I decline to do so, will this raise a red flag? What happens if a former friend who knows my history decides to file a complaint with the board ? To my knowledge the facilities that treated me cannot share my health records, which makes me feel a little bit better.

I'm aware of the sacrifices and trials I will face in school and later on as an RN. I'm willing to take as many chances and risks as I have to in order to achieve this goal because I believe it's what I was made to do. Before I embark on my journey, does anyone have any advice or tips? Do I have a valid reason to be concerned, and how can I ensure that I'm able to realize my dream despite my past?

[Guest1212520]

Hi there!
I read your post and here are some thoughts:

1. Like you said, your health information is protected, and I do not believe employers will have access to it when they do the background check, unless you committed a crime during one of your psychotic episodes. But even then, if you did so as a juvenile, those records might be sealed. 

2. I am not sure why a former friend will have the nerve to mess up your life like that? Honestly, I would not worry much about that "former friend." 

3. You said you did not have to be medicated for over a year since you practice coping skills. It is great that you manage your condition without drugs. However, nursing school is trial by fire, or "sink or swim" situation, which will be very stressful both on your body and your mind. You will need to think long and heard how you are planning to handle the stress that comes with the nursing school.

I hope this helps! 

[PD-RN2b]

Hello,

I am not yet a nurse (just accepted into my program), but I was speaking to a nurse regarding anti-anxiety medications and such and if they'd be an issue on my admissions drug test (it wasn't). Anyway, while on the topic of mental health she told me that yes, it's discrimination for jobs specifically to not hire someone for mental health issues etc, BUT, that the state licensing board can deny applicants who have had to be placed on psychiatric holds a nursing license due to them being deemed unfit. I read up on this in my states Board of Nursing and it does state that they will determine an applicants mental fitness and use their past mental and behavioral conduct to make their decision. 

How they'd find out that information, I'm not sure. I'm not sure if it's covered in an extended background check or if they ask the applicant. if that's the case you'd have to decide whether to tell the truth. 

This could be specific to my state, you'd need to look into the licensing board in your state and their rules!