Mental health nurse — Jeffrey Ndebele
As a recently qualified mental health nurse, Jeffrey reflects on the highs and lows of his new career
How did you get your job as a mental health nurse?
I made the decision to become a mental health nurse because I have always had a strong interest in mental health and a deep desire to help individuals facing these challenges.
To make it happen, I pursued a BSc in mental health nursing. During my studies, I completed various placements in different mental health settings, including community and in-patient care, working with older adults, children, early intervention teams, and in a psychiatry intensive care unit.
After graduating, I applied for positions in hospitals, clinics and community centres. I went through the application and interview process and was offered a position based on my qualifications.
How is your degree relevant to your current role?
My degree in mental health nursing is highly relevant to my current role, as it provided me with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with mental health conditions.
It has also given me a strong foundation in therapeutic interventions, pharmacology, understanding mental health disorders, and effective communication techniques.
What are your main work activities in your mental health role?
My day usually starts by reviewing patient charts and care plans, administering medications, and conducting intervention and risk assessments.
Throughout the day, I provide therapeutic interventions, collaborate with other healthcare professionals in multidisciplinary teams, and support patients in their daily activities.
Documenting patient progress and communicating with their families or caregivers are also important aspects of the job.
How has your role developed and what are your career ambitions?
As a newly qualified mental health nurse, I am currently enrolled in a 12-month preceptorship programme. This programme provides me with invaluable support from my preceptor, as well as my colleagues and senior staff nurses. The programme is designed to help me navigate my early days in the profession and provides guidance as I transition into my role.
In addition to the support from my colleagues and senior staff members, I have access to various resources and opportunities for professional development. My employer, North Staffordshire Combined, offers continuing education programmes, workshops, and seminars, which I can use to enhance my skills and expand my knowledge in the field of mental health nursing.
My core ambition as a mental health nurse is to make a positive impact on society through quality improvement. I'm driven to continuously enhance the care we provide, break down barriers and create a more equitable mental health system.
I'm also passionate about quality improvement and strive to drive positive change, contributing to a person-centred approach to mental health care. By incorporating the principles of the 6Cs (Care, Compassion, Competence, Communication, Courage, and Commitment) into my practice, I ensure that I provide compassionate care, effective communication, demonstrate courage in advocating for change, and remain committed to the well-being and recovery of individuals with mental health conditions.
What do you enjoy most about mental health nursing?
One of the most enjoyable aspects of being a mental health nurse is witnessing the positive changes in individuals' lives as they progress in their recovery and regain their sense of well-being.
Building trusting relationships with patients and making a positive impact by providing support throughout their recovery journey towards mental wellness, is both fulfilling and meaningful.
What are the challenges of being a mental health nurse?
Challenges include addressing the stigma surrounding mental health, managing challenging behaviours or crises, maintaining personal and emotional wellbeing, and meeting the complex needs of individuals with mental health conditions.
Additionally, there can be large workloads and time pressures, requiring effective time management and prioritisation skills.
What advice would you give to others who are considering a career as a mental health nurse?
Prioritise self-care - it's essential to look after yourself if you want to help others. Develop excellent communication and listening skills, and seek guidance from experienced professionals.
Find out more
- Read all about being a mental health nurse.
- Take a look at the healthcare sector.