Will being on anxiety medication hinder me from becoming a RN?

Compassion_x · Dec 8, 2012

Why would you ever need to tell the nursing program what medications you are on? That is private health information. If you don't want to tell them you don't have to.

I have had problems with anxiety for years, and I have been on an SSRI for a year (which I d/c a while ago), and a benzodiazapine PRN for the past few months. No one knows about it unless I choose to tell them. I have never had to tell anyone in my program about having anxiety, and why should I? No one has asked and it has never came up.

Just don't let it interfere with your school work and you will be fine.

givemeu1 · Dec 9, 2012

I agree with Compassion_x,.....as in being confidential information regarding patients, I would say this is no less for you, and what meds you are taking. I wouldn't worry as long as the medication doesn't deter you from performing in class, clinical duties, or job performance there after. I am currently on meds for anxiety attacks PRN. It's something that I have to take or I'll end up in full fledge panic mode. Consult your doctor's advice when going back about upping the medication and see what he/she says regarding this topic. Your health is first and foremost important and absolutely beneficial in giving excellent patient care. I wouldn't want to go through the stress of nursing school without mine :) Good Luck and no worries :)

violetgirl · Dec 9, 2012

They don't ask... :facepalm:

I agree with compassion_x!!! :cat:

Blessings to you! :up:

Amdecl6 · Dec 9, 2012

Thank you everyone for all of your responses! For some reason, I had it in my mind that I will be asked if I take any kind of medications during an interview or on paperwork, and I figured I HAD to disclose what I was on or could get into trouble down the road. But now that I think about it, Im not on any medication that alters me in any way that would be harmful to a patient. In fact, it does the exact opposite, it helps me to think clearly and remain calm. :up:

Thanks again for the responses, I feel a lot better about it now!

rubato, ASN, RN · Dec 9, 2012

Just remember, you'll have to take a drug test once you've been accepted. At that time, if you show up positive for something, you will, in fact, have to explain it. I would think it would be fine with a prescription medication, but don't have any first hand experience with it.

Michaela, RN · Dec 9, 2012

Rubato is right, however, not all schools require a drug test. Mine did not.

squeakercarp · Dec 10, 2012

It should be perfectly fine. Sad but true.... most of my cohort is on antidepressants. We are subjected to huge amounts of pressure and I don't see how anyone wouldn't have anxiety. I am on wellbutrin 150mg and it has just helped me be able to focus and sort out the situation if I have a problem. Instead of freaking out I now sit down and logically sort out my problems. Upon entry into the nursing program, my doctor told them about the medication on my physical exam paperwork and wrote down that I was very capable of being able to handle nursing school physically and emotionally. Unless you are a suicide risk they should not care about antidepressant or antianxiety.

inkn888 · Dec 10, 2012

I asked my doctor this very question and he said that it is private info.

alotusforyou · Dec 10, 2012

Prozac shouldn't be showing up on a drug test. It's not a narcotic or illegal substance. It also shouldn't hinder your ability to perform your job (it's doesn't make you high in any shape or form).

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Dec 10, 2012

Some BONs require disclosure of behavioral health problems that have necessitated treatment - for initial or renewal of licensure. Tx is one of those states.

MandinkaRN · Dec 10, 2012

I'm on several psych meds - including 2 controlled substances. 1) No one in school ever knew about them except for my Dr. at student health. 2) I just recently got a new job and underwent a medical evaluation. I disclosed all of the meds I am on, and the physician in employee health asked me to have my prescribing physician submit a letter stating which drugs he prescribes for me, the indication(s), and a confirmation that I am stable and under continued medical supervision. It is better to be honest, and as long as your medications are clearly not being abused, no one should hold it against you. Continue to manage your health as you and your provider see fit - it contributes to you being a healthier nurse, which only benefits your future patients!