Can I be an RN with a mental illness?

As long as your bipolar is controlled and you're doing well, you should not have problems. Good luck to you!

I've been coping with mental health issues for a long time. It didn't stop me from becoming a nurse, neither stop me from working in a dream job (ICU). As a matter of fact, I find that my coworkers are the most supportive regarding mental illness ; who's better than an health care professional not to judge upon a diagnosis ? If you know your triggers, if you take care of yourself and follow your treatment (like you've already been doing for a long time now), nobody should question that you are a responsible / reliable adult and that this diagnosis has nothing to do with your capacity of being a great nurse :)

I'm bipolar, and have been hospitalized three times in the last four years. They've all been voluntary hospitalizations. I know when I need a higher level of care. It's never interfered with patient care. I just make darn sure not to discuss my diagnosis with ANYONE I work with, because once that bipolar label is out there, you're "unstable" and they question every decision you make even though you've been a fantastic nurse for years. You only become a liability once the bipolar word gets thrown out there. Take care of yourself, take your meds, follow your treatment plan to the letter, and ask for help sooner than later if you start slipping but DO NOT DISCLOSE to anyone you work with. It will bite you in the butt every time.

Thanks for your reply :) I'm very relieved to know that bipolar disorder in itself wouldn't limit me.

In my experience most nurses have mental illness but aren't being treated. I have also noticed a lack of understanding/empathy for patients with Bipolar disorder. I think you would be an excellent addition to the team.

Good advice loving. Glad to know you're out there.

Hi! I hope you're doing amazing! The NV state board of nursing specifically asks if you have anything that would limit your ability to practice safely, and additionally asks about mental health. NV board itself wants a letter from your psychiatrist saying your condition is under control. It may be different in your state. It will NOT prevent you from working, it just might take a little extra effort to the board. Employers will never know.

I suppose it depends on which state she is planning to apply for and take her NCLEX in. If she identified her state, perhaps someone from that area could give her the proper information. I know in New Jersey the Board does not ask about health issues. Pennsylvania does not ask about health issues. Ohio didn't ask back when I lived there, but that was many years ago.

Louisiana

I have been a nurse for 30 years and have bipolar disorder. Notice I didn't say 'I'm bipolar' because I am not defined by a diagnosis. With proper treatment and a plan to take care of yourself, and avoid triggers, you can be a fantastic nurse with a lot to offer. I have never had to disclose my history to renew my license. I'm curious, do they ask for other medical history, or just bipolar disorder? There are nurses out there with other chronic health issues. It seems unfair to single out a single issue, but there is lots of stigma. I wouldn't volunteer any info unless I was directly asked. Once others know, it seems like a never ending struggle to prove you are competent. I didn't stop being a smart, competent, seasoned nurse when I got my diagnosis. One advantage to disclosing (when you have to) is that you are covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and your employer has to make reasonable accommodations for you to do your job. The accommodations may include extra breaks, or a flexible schedule so you can take time off when you need it. Good luck!

I looked up the Louisiana BON licensure application and the do ask about mental health. It looks like you would need to have a doctor write a letter answering the questions they set out in the application.

If you do disclose to the state, you do run the (probably small) risk of ending up in the impaired nurses program -- so mandatory drug testing, and a stipulated license that makes getting a job in acute care very difficult.

Not disclosing of course is an ethical question mark and you will have legal ramifications if the BON ever finds out.

Absolutely!

Many notably successful people are living or have lived w/ mental illness.

I will tell you that one of the most brilliant, compassionate & accomplished nurses I've ever worked w/ lives w/ Bipolar ds. The patients adored her, even the most difficult/challenging patients, Drs/Surgeons respected her & co-workers spoke well of her.

Follow your heart & ignore the naysayers.

All the best to you.