Can I work with children after a history of suicide attempts?

Question

I want to do a teacer training course at college.

Whilst I plan on wearing long sleaved tops to covor old self arm scars, it just occured to me that my past might be a prolem.

As a teenager around 5 years ago I took many overdoses, was usually treated and discharged, had one short 3 day stay in a psyciatric unit,

but I was never diagnosed with any mental illness or put on medication, because everyting was an absolute reaction to the trauma of losing a cild to forced adoption..

I eventually learnt to live with it and have been functional for around 4 years now, especially since I've had another child.

but I worry this history may get in the way of me doing my dream job, teaching young children.

What do you think?

Answer 1

I do not mean to be unkind, but I think your poor spelling and grammar will have a much greater effect on your teaching than the attempted suicide.  I really don't think the latter will matter.  As someone pointed out, medical records are (or should be ) sealed.

Answer 2

Some people will answer this question without putting themselves in your shoes. Just because you had a few bumps along the way does not make you a bad person nor will it make you a bad teacher. If you are passionate about teaching then I would say follow your dreams. I think it is important however to maybe seek some counseling to learn more about yourself and how you handle tough situations. I work in a district where there are many troubled kids and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE making a difference in their lives. You should look upon your tough times as strength. You have learned a lot during those times and this could help you be a more compassionate teacher. Just remember that you are there for the kids. So, if you ever feel overwhelmed, which every teacher does!, and wonder how you will cope with stress, get that figured out before. You wouldn't want to have 20 something kids depending on you and have to leave them.

Everyone has skeletons in their closet, I don't care who you are. It's how you grow stronger as a person that counts.

Best of luck to you and stay healthy!

Answer 3

mmm ok  

Answer 4

Wow you're taking some abuse. That's the way it is here so sort them out. I think you can do it. Can you get your arms fixed up? Will some cocoa butter work to lessen the scars? I think you can do it, since records will be sealed. There is always the chance they will insist on your records. If they are post adult, you could refuse, or you might not even have to indicate that. And if one job turns you down, you go to the next. The outlook is not bad. Don't volunteer all that information to people. Clam up and speak to an attorney to guide you on your applications or a career expert.  

Answer 5

You will make a great teacher if it's truely what you want to do.

Going to the edge and back will make you all the wiser.

Society has the problem not you.

Just get some light weight long sleves to keep the ignorant happy.

Answer 6

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Answer 7

Forget 4 to 7 year olds.  Some of the most introspective, influential, and  effective drug and alcohol rehabilitation councilors/teachers are past users.  The 15 to 21 year old crowd are who may have the best results with.  

You know trauma.  You will never *pretend* to know how they feel.

Empathy vs. Sympathy.  

I don't know you from adam, but you may have a skill-set that will allow you use your past experiences instead of hide them.

Answer 8

Medical records are sealed, it shouldn't be a problem

Answer 9

teaching what ? hopefully not grammar. bacon

Answer 10

You shouldn't be able to but go ahead. Maybe the kids won't mind a dead teacher.