Working in the mental health industry with mental illness

Good idea? Bad idea? So/so idea depending on the person? My biggest and most forward issue is BPD, however I do suffer from panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, and anti social tendencies. Regardless of these facts, I truly enjoy working in the psychology and mental health field (particularly abnormal psychology) and am currently pursing a degree. I've heard different things from different people, including my psychiatrist, therapist, family, friends, and coworkers--some believe it's a great idea, as I can relate to those struggling with mental illness and have experienced many of the same hurdles and issues, while others believe it's a terrible idea and see it as "adding fuel to the fire". I've recently applied for a job working as a paid intern of sorts in an inpatient rehab facility for adolescents, and I wonder if I would be disqualified automatically because of my history with inpatient care for drug abuse as a teenager. In my mind, it makes me more qualified, but...

So what do you guys think? Is someone more qualified to work in the psychology and mental health field if they themselves have struggled with mental illness first or secondhand?

I don't know if its true or not, but I've heard many therapists have BPD traits. BPDs tend to be drawn to the caring professions.

I think it depends on the level of functioning and self-awareness the person has.

A person who has put a lot of work into their own recovery would make a great therapist, I think, because they have been there, they understand.

So I think it could be a great field to work in.

I have many of your same diagnoses and I also decided to pursue a career in the mental health field, though I feel I need to be further along in recovery before I actually start working in it.

insideofmypocket wrote:
So what do you guys think? Is someone more qualified to work in the psychology and mental health field if they themselves have struggled with mental illness first or secondhand?

Yes, its the wounded healer thing but you need to look after yourself 1st.

I would definitely encourage you to do the internship before investing as a career route.

I work in mental health as a therapist (I've worked in both outpatient and inpatient) and I am DESPERATELY trying to get out. I'm great at my job, clients love me and remark that I understand them in ways no one ever has, and it's really rewarding to see them make great progress.

However, there are very important things people don't understand about the reality of being a therapist. The amount of emotional and mental drain is debilitating for even NONS but most severely for someone that suffers with their own mental health issues. Your clients will suck you dry, understandably so, because they're suffering and you seem like their only life line, and you will feel obligated to give them everything you have to keep them alive and well. Now imagine this 8-10 hours every day, 5 (or more) days a week. And don't get me started on drowning in documentation and charting. Now if that sounds like an awesome day at work, then I'd say you are well suited.

We are taught ways to balance self care with client/patient care but it's nearly impossible. You'll ultimately either be the Therapist that gives WAY too much of yourself or you'll be the Therapist that doesn't give a $#%^ about their clients and is completely desensitized because you hear about suicide and trauma all day so nothing concerns you any more. I've been on both sides and someone always loses out.

An important thing to keep in mind though, is you can work in mental health without working directly with clients in a therapeutic role. And that's what I'm trying to transition into now. I love this field, but rather work more in research, advocacy, administration, etc.

Hope that helps as just a different perspective. I feel like people always want to tell you the rosy side of it but not the full picture. An internship will surely give you that. Good luck!

justagirl00 wrote:I don't know if its true or not, but I've heard many therapists have BPD traits. BPDs tend to be drawn to the caring professions.

I think it depends on the level of functioning and self-awareness the person has.

A person who has put a lot of work into their own recovery would make a great therapist, I think, because they have been there, they understand.

So I think it could be a great field to work in.

I have many of your same diagnoses and I also decided to pursue a career in the mental health field, though I feel I need to be further along in recovery before I actually start working in it.

Out of curiosity, have you narrowed down what area of the field you'd like to work in? I was thinking something like intensive outpatient programs for adolescents. I've been thinking that I should likely hold off as well until I know I'm completely prepared...

thanks for the feedback xx

My therapist is obviously BPD, and she admits to many of the traits. The rest are obvious. She's a very intelligent woman, though, and a natural moderator. She's a great group leader. I think it's a boon, because you can relate to your patients. The main thing is that you are able to cope with your demons, because if you can't handle yourself there's no way you can inspire others to do so.

No problem

I haven't really narrowed it down yet. I agree with Candi and have been afraid it might be too emotionally draining. That's why I'm in no hurry to start working yet.

Ideally I would like to keep it easy, a private practice with just a few clients without serious problems.

Maybe not feasible, but that's what I would choose in a perfect world. Probably nothing inpatient or people with very serious mental illnesses.

Maybe adolescents who have depression or something like that.

What about work with borderline kids?
When I was a kid no psychologist helped me but now they are pushing for early intervention because at age 5 therapy can have the biggest impact.