Despite the strides made in creating awareness, there is still a lot of misunderstanding and prejudice among many people about mental illness. It is likely why, as a nurse, you may be hesitant to seek medical treatment for severe depression. Are you worried that it could lead to a loss of your nursing license? Will people lose trust in your ability to discharge your duties?
Unless your condition does not put your patients at risk of harm and you perform as required, then there is likely to be no sanction that is going to be imposed on your license.
You are protected against any form of discrimination
The law prohibits your professional board from discriminating against you based on any disability, including mental illness. It means that the board cannot revoke your license based solely on your mental health status as it will be against the law. Instead, they are supposed to prove how your mental illness is putting other people at risk and whether revoking the license is the best solution in light of your condition.
If you are struggling with severe depression, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. You may be afraid to lose your livelihood, but if your condition worsens, you will no longer be in a position to do what you hold dear – practice. Your wellbeing should always come first, no matter the consequences.
The fact that you’ve sought help for an illness that could affect the quality of care you provide is actually a point in your favor. It shows that you take your commitment to your patients seriously.
Safeguard your rights
Nurses are only human and prone to mental illness, just like everyone else. Therefore, should you find yourself battling depression, it is necessary to be aware of your rights.
If you believe you have been discriminated against and had your license revoked because you sought treatment for your depression, you should follow the right steps in getting the justice you deserve.
