do you think it is okay for a nurse to have bipolar and still be working

Chad_KY_SRNA · Aug 12, 2005

I used to date a paramedic who was bipolar, he had good and bad days but it didn't affect patient care in the slightest. Do whay makes you happy.

Cute_CNA, CNA · Aug 12, 2005

Please read "The Unquiet Mind." I forget who writes it, but it was very informative. The story is about a prominent psychiatrist who has BP disorder, and how she coped with it and the stuff she went through. It's not a nurse in the story, but I still think it may help you. True story, and a great read.
Valerie

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0679443746/104-1590591-6150327?v=glance

It's a very good book. Fortunately, I've never acted as strangely as this psychiatrist has.

Being bipolar doesn't mean you're going to act out all the time. Just because I think something doesn't mean I'm going to do it. I've had unusual thoughts, and I just stop and think to myself, "NO, that is not acceptable. There will be very bad consecquences if you do that. So don't do it, [my name here]."

grannynurse FNP student · Aug 12, 2005

I have a question. I have been bipolar for many years and I am a nursing student. However ppl I know who know my diagnosis have told me that I shouldn't be working in healthcare especially since the field that I want to go into is psych. I am on meds and I am stable so I don't see why it should be a problem. Any thoughts.

I have been Bipolar since 1972. The last time I was hospitalized was ten years ago. I am well controlled, on medication. When I was younger, I was misdiagnosed and not treated properly. I was also view, by some of my peers, as damaged. You are under no obligation to disclose to anyone your diagnoses, except on your health form. And all you need to put is you suffer from a mental disorder and am well controlled with medication. Obtain a letter from your treating physician to that effect. Make sure you get plenty of rest, take your medication and see your physician, as needed. You can work in any field of nursing that you desire.

Good luck.

Grannynurse :balloons: