In this uncertain time, many of us are experiencing an unusual amount of stress and anxiety. For some people, these stressors can lead them to experience a serious mental health crisis. For those individuals with professional licenses, it can be a trying time. Not only is there the stigma associated with mental health issues, but there is also the prospect of losing your license. There are some important things you can do to protect your professional license during a mental health crisis.
Get the Help You Need
Unfortunately, there is still a stigma in our society related to mental health treatment. However, if you are in the midst of a mental health crisis, it is essential that you seek the help you need. This may mean therapy, medication, or both. Some administrative agencies of the state even provide confidential mental-health evaluations and treatment. You may feel that seeking treatment will put your license in jeopardy, but almost all the time, the exact opposite is true. Seeking help and recovering from your crisis should only help your ability to practice your profession. You will be in a more precarious situation if you fail to seek help, and your mental health is damaged to the point where you make a serious error that could affect your license, or your ability to obtain or renew your license. It is better to get the help you need!
Be Honest
Your medical history is private and confidential. However, the state does have the right to know if you've been treated for a mental health condition when you are applying for or renewing a professional license. Do not lie about the fact that you have received psychiatric treatment. If you have received treatment and have recovered or are managing your mental health condition, you will likely have your application approved. Not being honest about your situation could result in severe consequences, including the possible denial, suspension or revocation of your license.
Speak to an Attorney
If you have a question about how to answer a question related to your mental health on a licensing application, or are facing administrative discipline, you should consult with an attorney. In addition, your board may want to conduct an in-person interview to gather more information about your condition. Having an attorney on your side during this process can be very helpful and give you peace of mind. If your mental health crisis becomes an issue that may affect your license, an experienced attorney can help you take steps to preserve your license and ensure that you are not discriminated against.
Tison Law Group Can Help.
If you are worried about losing your professional license due to a mental health crisis, you should consult with an experienced attorney. The attorneys at Tison Law Group have been helping licensed professionals for decades. Contact the trusted attorneys at Tison Law Group or call us at 813-739-1776 to schedule your free consultation today.
