Whether you're seeking practical advice, inspiration or a taste of mental health nursing at Plymouth our students and graduates offer you a comprehensive view of their journey at Plymouth.
The programme is absolutely helping me feel prepared to be a mental health nurse. During my first placement I felt really lucky to be there – there was a good mix of mental health and general nursing, so the skills that I learned have really helped me set up a solid knowledge base.
The main reason I love mental health nursing is being able to have an impact on a patient’s life, for example delivering care and them remembering your name and praising how well you’ve done. To me that is so precious as it has shown that I have made a therapeutic relationship with the patient.
Being involved in the patient’s journey and seeing all the little achievements that can impact themselves and their families is wonderful. Mental health nursing has a perfect blend of physical and mental health and the way in which they influence each other is fascinating.
To be able to help and support people at a most vulnerable time of their life is inspiring. I feel very privileged to be able to listen to people’s stories and experiences. To use my knowledge and training to improve the desired outcome for patients.
I love mental health nursing because of how challenging, rewarding and complex it is. Forever thinking on your toes in clinical work and being empathetic and compassionate in all aspects of patient care.
"My favourite part of the role is when you see clients’ lives improving. Placements can be challenging and emotionally draining, but when you see someone making steps in their recovery it’s so rewarding."
I love being a part of something that is so needed, the support provided to individuals is critical. Meeting so many different individuals, listening to the most emotionally and interesting stories, I think what fills me with the most pride in when someone chooses to trust you, trust you with their story and feels safe to do so.
As mental health nurses, we get to hear the stories of people and the journey that they are on. Every day at work can be different because everyone you meet has their own story, their own meanings in life and their own navigation system around it.
“The 24/7 library was invaluable. The library staff were massively helpful and I couldn’t have got through it without them. Never be afraid to ask for help. I am dyslexic and have been supported every step of the way, but I had to say yes to that help.”
