I was diagnosed as bipolar, on the depressive side, about 3 years ago. I've been hospitalized several times in the past, the last time being about 1 year ago. (which is a HUGE step in the right direction for me) I was, for awhile, considered what is referred to as a "frequent flier". I've been on just about every psych med out there, but I am med-resistant. I am currently taking Lamictal, but I just started it. I was on Lamictal in the past, but I don't know if it worked, because I had been grossly over-medicated, with anywhere between 6 to 8 different psych meds at one time, so I have no idea if it was working, because of all the meds I was on. So we are trying Lamictal again, alone, to try to keep my moods in check. I have come so far since I was initially dx'd. It has been a very hard road for me, but I feel I have come such a long way. I think what has helped me the most was out-patient therapy for 3 straight years. The meds weren't of much help, although I feel I do need to be on a mood stablizer, if I can get one to work for me.
Toward the end of my therapy, I decided to enroll in our local community college, which has also helped me to focus on what I want to do with my life. I have always wanted to be a nurse, ever since I was 9 years old. I am finishing up my pre-reqs, and trying to get into the LPN program. (this has also been a HUGE step for me).
What I would like to know is, are there any Bipolar psych nurses out there? I have my life in the most control now, than I ever had. I feel I might have a lot to offer psych patients, since I've been there, and done that.
I would like any input, either for or against a bipolar person becoming a psych nurse. What do you guys think? I am much more stable now, with just the occasional brief depressive episode. I also think that becoming a nurse, would really give me a "purpose" in life, which in turn, would help my depression greatly. Over the past year, I have made so many improvements in myself, thanks mostly to my wonderful therapist (whom I am no longer seeing, because he was dx'd with ALS, and had to retire). But I also feel I was ready to end my therapy at the time of his retirement.
Is it a bad idea to try to get into psych nursing, while having a mental disorder, which is basically under control?
My psychiatrist says that there should be nothing to stop me from trying to become a psych nurse, but advised me not to work in the hospitals I have been a patient in. He also said that I don't have to tell anyone (potential employers) of my illness, if I don't want to.
Please, any thoughts on this matter, whether you agree with it or disagree. I need to hear all kinds of different feedback, so I can decide if I should persue this.
Thank you for reading my long post, and I greatly appreciate ANY input.
