Nurses who are on anxiety/depression meds?

Nurses Disabilities

Published

Hello All,

I am just wondering do any of you have anxiety, depression or a mental illness and you have to take meds for it? I am currently trying to pursue a career in Nursing and I feel as if my anxiety gets the best of me on some days. What do you guys do to cope? i have been on and off antidepressants since I was 16. Nothing above 25mg because I refuse to go higher. I hate being on medicine period and I worry that my anxiety will affect my career. Thoughts?

Specializes in Med/surg/ortho.

If your going to see a dr for help then let him help you. If he suggested your dose be increased then why wouldn't you? What does the dose have to do with anything. Plus, medication is only a piece of it. Chances are the meds are going to solve all your problems. Medication never worked for my depression.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
A lot of us suffer from depression and anxiety to some extent, Hooven. I have, for years, dealt with bouts of depression. I experience at least a little anxiety every day. A little anxiety is okay, for it's a great motivator. If I was okay with just about everything the way they are, I'd probably be a complacent slug and doubt if I'd ever get much done.

Dealing with depression and anxiety is a lot like a recovering addict who works a 12 step program; it's a lifestyle decision and we must practise working that program every day.

I cope with my depression and anxiety predominately through Art, exercise, spirituality, and humor. (Read my signature line.)

I have always done some form of exercise, but didn't realize how therapeutic it was until I had lapses and periods of inactivity. I exercise every day, even if it's for 10 minutes of weight lifting before work. I do small things, like park a good ways from the Hospital and walk the distance. I opt to take the stairs in lieu of the elevator. I go for relatively long bicycle rides at least twice a week. I have weights and an elliptical in my basement which I use routinely about 3-5 times a week.

After suffering from some symptoms of PTSD following a stabbing by a psychotic Patient about 20 years ago, I sought the services of an Art Therapist for about 6 months. She showed me methods in which I could express my feelings using my Art. I use those methods every day.

I read spiritual literature every day- something, anything to get my mind in a more positive space.

I attempt to live a healthy lifestyle. You are what you eat. Sometimes, I'm a big fat cow. But the majority of the the time I'm lean and green.

Immerse yourself in your endeavor. Make happiness and contentment what you eat and breathe and happiness and contentment will find you.

The very, very best to you, Hooven!

I wrote a post on here about hobbies and what people like to do instead of letting their work twist their minds.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You're definitely not alone. I have depression and anxiety as well. It got worse during nursing school. And since graduating I've started seeing a therapist. Learning coping skills is definitely helping. Some good advice here, don't let the stigma keep you from being your best.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in M/S, LTC, Corrections, PDN & drug rehab.

150 mg of Zoloft :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med/surg/ortho.

Your not alone and good for you for doing something about it. I've suffered with

Major depression and anxiety most of my adult life, this kicked into high gear when I started my first nursing job. The stress only gets worse and so I would suggest that if medication has worked for you in the past that you continue exploring that option until you find the right dose. Also, meds aren't really a coping mechanism. That's just taking a pill. Try exercising.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment