Hi Rachel,
Your question is an interesting one. I have supervised a number of psych nurses who have experienced mental illness firsthand and their personal circumstances both enhanced and complicated their work. I am intending to do my Masters thesis on this very subject.
I think that the nurses I worked with were amazing psych nurses because of their own experiences. I also know they needed a lot of support to work in the field given their own issues. I would say if it is what you want then go for it but make sure you put good supports in place. ie clinical supervision, the support of your own treatment team, family, friends and colleagues. Best Wishes.
