Self reporting mental illness

[sssT]

Hi there,

Is there a place to find a list of states that require self-disclosure about mental health treatment? I did a search of AN and couldn't find an answer. If it's helpful, I'm specifically interested in the requirements as they relate to licensure by endorsement in North Carolina. The information states the applicant must be in "good physical and mental health" but doesn't define what that means, as if it's up to the individual to decide. Thoughts?

Thank you in advance!

[VivaLasViejas, ASN, RN]

That's one I wouldn't touch with a ten-foot pole.......if you don't have to disclose it, for heaven's sake DON'T! I've seen nurses with mental illnesses get stuck in programs designed for those with substance abuse issues/drug diversion etc., and that's just not right. We don't deserve to be treated like criminals for having a brain that works a little differently from others'.

You're fortunate that your state doesn't ask straight questions, like Texas does (they want to know if you've been treated within the past 5 years for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or one of the other 'serious' psychiatric illnesses). In my state, the question is pretty ambiguous---their question is "Do you have any physical, mental, or emotional condition that impairs or may impair your ability to practice nursing safely". Well, what is one supposed to say---that they're safe now, have been safe all along, but they MIGHT go off their rocker at some point and not be safe? Whoever would admit to something that has never happened and that their crystal ball can't predict? It's foolishness, I tell you.......sheer foolishness.

[dthfytr, ADN, LPN, RN, EMT-B, EMT-I]

My suggestion would be to download the application of the state(s) you are interested and read them carefully. In Texas, and I suspect in most states, your answers become a public record, no longer protected by HIPPA! At one time Texas required reporting of depression, for instance, but they have since changed the requirements to more severe problems only. Good luck and be careful!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Tx requires self disclosure. A friend of mine got caught up in this when she reported treatment for (mild) post-partum depression... resulted in a long and painful process for her, despite the fact that she was employed in a non-clinical (administrative only) position and her work could not possibly have any direct impact on patient safety.