Student's mental health support saved her life – and inspired others

Eleanor explains how dealing with her own mental health issues has given her a unique perspective to help patients

10 October 2024

On World Mental Health Day, University of Plymouth student nurse Eleanor explains how dealing with her own mental health issues has given her a unique perspective to help patients.

Trigger Warning – Self-Harm

Eleanor’s journey is a story of overcoming adversity with resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to her dreams.

Growing up in Manchester, she always aspired to be a nurse. Her early leadership success in the air cadets put her on track for a career in the armed forces, but she struggled with focus and behaviour issues in school.

I had a really short attention span and difficulty concentrating. I kept hearing that I was clever but needed more focus. It was frustrating – I wasn't the 'perfect student,' and I turned to self-harm as a way to cope.

At the time, Eleanor didn't know she had ADHD, which was affecting her mental health and ability to perform academically. Seeking a diagnosis changed everything.

Getting the diagnosis and medication gave me the tools to focus, communicate better, and advocate for myself.

It helped me to work through my mental health challenges and realise that even though the armed forces might not be an option due to the medication, I could still have a meaningful impact as a mental health nurse.

Refusing to let go of her ambitions, Eleanor excelled in college, gaining work experience in care homes, and started her nursing degree.

She transferred to the University of Plymouth’s Truro School of Nursing in her second year, relocating to support her partner in the Royal Navy.

Eleanor's placement experiences have been truly transformative, positively impacting patient care.

On a placement, a patient noticed Eleanor's healed self-harm scars and asked how she managed to overcome her struggles.

"I don't want to glamourise my past, but I refuse to be ashamed. I can show others that there's hope, even when things feel dark. My scars are part of my journey; through them, I can offer hope to others. However, you must strike a balance between professionalism and empathy." Eleanor said.

Eleanor student mental health nurse Cornwall

Eleanor credits the University of Plymouth for providing essential support, from housing assistance to ensuring her reasonable adjustments were met to accommodate her neurodiversity.

From my very first interview, I knew this was my chance.

Every step of the way, I've felt supported by my personal tutor, my friends, and the adjustments that let me make the most of my energy and creativity. It's been an incredible experience, and I'm so grateful.

With her inspiring journey so far, Eleanor offers vital advice to those considering a career in nursing:

Some people wish to heal themselves by healing others, but that is impossible. If your emotional bucket is overflowing, you cannot help anyone else.

Take the time to care for yourself and work through your struggles. Nursing School will always be there.

Eleanor's story is a testament to perseverance, self-acceptance, and the strength to turn personal struggles into a source of hope and compassion for others. As she continues her studies, her impact as a future mental health nurse is already clear.

I'm so grateful for everything the University has done to help me, and I'm excited to see what's next.

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