Told a colleague that I have mental illness, now afraid of being able to practice?

U.S.A. Michigan

Published

Specializes in General.

Okay so I had kept this only between me and my family, and everything was going good until I made the mistake of telling a colleague that I have a mental illness and now all of the gossip and bullying is occurring. Any suggestions? I am scared everyday that I could get reported and have my career ruined. Can they do this to me or I am just being paranoid? I love nursing and want to continue being a nurse but I am afraid whether I will be allowed to practice with my mental Illness. I am a human being like everyone else but sadly have a disorder, an illness that I cannot cure. 

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Specializes in ICU.

I apologize for the struggles this has caused you. Unfortunately, not every one is your friend and as time goes on we all tend to learn this the hard way. 

Do no let a bully on your unit change your opinion of nursing as a whole. Sometimes unfortunately you will find bad apples - but remember your patients and the great work you do for them. All the fulfillment you get from your job - go into work with that energy and you'll be fine.

Wishing you luck ? 

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Specializes in CRNA, Finally retired.
Caring kindness said:

Okay so I had kept this only between me and my family, and everything was going good until I made the mistake of telling a colleague that I have a mental illness and now all of the gossip and bullying is occurring. Any suggestions? I am scared everyday that I could get reported and have my career ruined. Can they do this to me or I am just being paranoid? I love nursing and want to continue being a nurse but I am afraid whether I will be allowed to practice with my mental Illness. I am a human being like everyone else but sadly have a disorder, an illness that I cannot cure. 

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Lesson learned.  Many nurses work with mental illness.  If your performance is adequate., who needs to know?  I'm sorry that the person to whom you volunteered this information is a mean girl.  Just keep on doing a good job, make friends outside of work and practice being good about giving yourself TLC every day.  They'll find something else to gossip about in 15 minutes.  

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