RN in PMHNP with hx of Bipolar 1 Disorder

Long Term Care Columnist / Guide · Mar 30, 2021

I think a lot depends on where you’re practicing and how you present. I’m assuming by the fact that you’re an RN in a PMHNP program that you’ve been successful as a nurse; it seems that your bipolar episodes have not had a huge impact on your career thus far. Almost everyone has relapses with this illness, and occasionally the hospital is a necessity.

The thing is, BONs tend to be quirky, each state has different ways of doing things. Some will actually make nurses with mental health issues go through a monitoring program for several years to make sure they can practice safely, while others, like my own, shrug their shoulders and let the chips fall where they may. I have a diagnosis of bipolar I myself and never had trouble renewing my license. I did have to be honest, because I’ve been hospitalized too and I didn’t want the BON to hear of it from someplace else.

I don’t know about the DEA though...they may or may not have an issue with you prescribing meds. You may want to call them (anonymously) and ask them.

Now, I’m not going to judge you on not taking meds. I just don’t know how anyone with BP I can manage without at least a couple. Are you stable? When was the last time you had a manic or depressed episode? Just curious.

Whatever happens, please keep us posted. There are more than a few members here who have bipolar and/or have been hospitalized for mental illness and I hope they’ll weigh in too. Best of luck!

DuckyPRK · Mar 30, 2021

@Vivialasvegas

Hi, Vivia.

Thank you for your reply.

My last manic episode was in 2018, and that resulted in hospitalization. Last major depressive episode, I couldn't tell you. Within the last year, I had a miscarriage, a death in the family, and managed quarantine without being severely depressed.

Generally speaking, I avoid alcohol/drugs, excessive caffeine, excessive exercise (a real thing for me), avoid screen time beyond a certain hour, and absolutely protect my sleep at all costs. I try not to do too many 'exciting' events in a row because it might overstimulate me. For better or worse, I avoid stressful, problematic relationships with family/friends because the agitation it creates in me is a trigger for mania. Spending time outdoors doing calming things like swimming or fishing, regularly hiking or gardening, all help to keep me balance. It's not great, but it works for me so far. I do think, however, I am going to eventually need to be on medication. The aging process is affecting my hormones, so I can see myself being put on meds in 5 to 10 years. I'm currently enjoying what little free reign I have for now.

I will keep this post updated. I have contacted a healthcare attorney, will probably seek out a few more in the coming weeks, and relay whatever answers I may find to this post.

Best of luck to us all out there dealing with this illness.

Take care of yourselves. ?

Long Term Care Columnist / Guide · Mar 30, 2021

You’re doing all the right things. Your self-care routine is nothing short of amazing! I wish I were that disciplined; maybe I wouldn’t need quite so much medication (but I think I’d still be on some).

I'm so sorry about your miscarriage. They’re hard for anyone to go through, but doubly so for us. It sounds like you’ve really been through the ringer. I’m proud of you for your fortitude and I think if anyone can get through PMHNP school, it’s you. Hurray! ????