Coming out. My experience as a mental patient.

1. There is still a strong stigma attached to mental illness, and surprisingly many psychiatric nurses reinforce that stigma. Although some professionals may go into therapy to improve self-esteem and become better professionals, they may run the risk of destroying their career. 2. The experience as a patient in a mental health facility can result in nightmares and flashbacks, and damage due to restraints. Because "coming out" can destroy one's career, the safest place for a nurse with a history of hospitalization or substance abuse may be "in the closet." 3. If the stigma of mental illness is going to be changed, then it must start with the changing of the attitudes and perceptions of mental health professionals.