psychiatric treatment for medical professionals

[LanaBanana]

I have a nurse friend who is Bipolar and seems to be going into crisis. I have been trying to convince her to seek treatment but she is resistant because she thinks as a nurse people will treat her differently - both in the psych hospital and back on the job. I know I've heard about substance abuse treatment centers for medical professionals, do special treatment programs exist for mental illness in medical professionals? I'm trying to do research to get her help as soon as possible. I have convinced her to see a psychiatrist this week, but she is going to need more. (I am also bipolar and am seeing signs in her that I've seen too many times in myself, so I now know where she's heading, but because I'm not yet a nurse I can't really understand how she feels about being treated differently.)

If you can tell me if this kind of treatment center exists I would really appreciate it. I think she might be willing to do treatment that way.

[CharlieRN]

I don't know of any special programs. We treat med pros on our general progams. I have had both MD's and RN's. It is our policy to treat them exactly as other clients, never assuming that they know anymore than anyone else. Medical pros seem to appreciate this aproach.

[jetscreamer101]

I have been a nurse for 12 years and required a hospitalization for a severe depressive episode last year. I was treated in a different town that I live or work in. I was treated the same as the others on the unit, but did get some "you should know better" from the MD and some of the nurses. I ended up being off for 5 months as I had surgery before my psych released me to work. I was nervous about going back to work, but just got alot of glad your feeling better type statements. I was off so long because of complications after surgery.

[RENAISSANCE RN]

I have been a nurse for 12 years and required a hospitalization for a severe depressive episode last year. I was treated in a different town that I live or work in. I was treated the same as the others on the unit, but did get some "you should know better" from the MD and some of the nurses. I ended up being off for 5 months as I had surgery before my psych released me to work. I was nervous about going back to work, but just got alot of glad your feeling better type statements. I was off so long because of complications after surgery.

What did they think you should know... How not to get sick?? I hate people when they are holier than thou. I am glad that you are well.

[rn/writer, RN]

Here is a link you might find helpful.

http://www.rogershospital.org/hospital/Herrington/herringt.php

This if for the Herrington Recovery Center at Rogers Memorial Hospital. Their program is specially designed for professionals, whether they be in the medical field or some other discipline. Their treatment approach is extensive and effective. They will, if need be, work with court systems and/or licensing boards to help their patients keep or regain their credentials.

I worked on several different units at Rogers, although not at Herrington. It is an amazing place with many beautiful buildings on a breathtakingly beautiful campus. The surroundings alone offer a degree of peace and serenity.

I hope this helps.