Treatment works for depression and anxiety

Recently, a nurse was suspended by state regulators for allegedly using drugs on the job - an anti-depression and anti-anxiety medication. I wonder if the same actions and response would be made if she had taken other medication?

She was hospitalized for two days and fired. How frequently are people in our community fired for reasons relating to psychiatric illnesses?

The Iowa Board of Nursing suspended her license pending a drug evaluation, treatment and 12 months of sobriety.

Does this mean she must forgo treatment for depression and anxiety?

Treatment works and help can be found. One solution is the support is offered through NAMI Connection, a recovery support group program for adults living with mental illness. This program provides a place that offers respect, understanding, encouragement and hope. The group also:

l Is limited to people with mental illness

l Meets weekly for 90 minutes

l Is free of charge

l Follows a flexible structure without an educational format

l Does not recommend or endorse any medications or other medical therapies

All groups are confidential - participants can share as much or as little personal information as they wish. The nearest NAMI Connection group meets at 5 p.m. Monday evening s at DREAMS, 1420 First Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids.

Carol Porch

Iowa City