Mental health challenges among young people in the UK are increasingly common. In 2023, one in five children and young people in England aged 8 to 25 experienced a probable mental disorder. The prevalence was highest among 17 to 19-year-olds, with 23.3% affected. Anxiety and depression were the most common issues, with 16-year-olds being particularly affected. At the same time, eating disorders also saw a significant rise among young women. For those reasons, the role of a mental health nurse is important in reducing the problem.
The role of mental health nurses is essential in supporting those with mental problems. They build trustful relationships with patients, listen to their concerns, and offer guidance on therapies and social activities. By working closely with patients and their families, the nurses ensure the patient’s condition during and after treatment. Let’s explore more about this role and the impacts in well-being.
What is a mental health nurse?
A mental health nurse is a nurse who specialises in caring for people with mental health problems. For instance, depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia. These nurses work in places like hospitals, mental health centres, or even in the community. In general, they help people manage their mental conditions. They work with other healthcare professionals to create care plans that match each person's needs.
Aside from that, mental health nurses assess patients' needs, give medication, and provide therapy. Besides providing medical care, they help patients recover and live independently. These nurses ensure that the patient’s mental and physical health is taken care of. These qualities are important to help patients feel supported and understand that they are not alone.
The history of mental health nursing
The history of mental health nurse professions goes back a long way. In the past, people with mental illnesses were often treated poorly and locked away in asylums. In the 18th century, reformers like William Tuke in England began pushing for better care and treatment. They introduced moral therapy, which focused on kindness and respect for patients. This was a major shift from earlier neglectful practices.
In the 19th century, mental health nursing became more formalised. In 1850, the first mental health nursing school was opened in England. Over the years, mental health nurses began to receive specialised training. In the 20th century, nurses like Hildegard Peplau developed new methods for patient care that focused on communication.
In the 1960s, the UK moved toward community-based care, reducing the reliance on large psychiatric hospitals. Today, mental health nurse in the UK is a well-respected profession that plays a vital role in supporting patients' mental well-being.
Roles of mental health nurses in the UK
In the UK, a mental health nurse plays an important role in supporting people with mental health issues. Their main responsibility is to provide care and assistance to patients. These patients are experiencing conditions such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and eating disorders. The nurses help the patients by building trusting relationships, listening to their problems, and helping them recover.
In addition to taking care of patients directly, mental health nurses work closely with other healthcare workers. These include doctors, therapists, and social workers. Through their dedication and expertise, mental health nurses make a significant impact on the well-being of patients. Here are the explanations of their key roles on how they take care of people with mental problems.
Assessment and care planning
The first thing a mental health nurse does is get to know the person they're caring for. They talk with them to understand how they're feeling, what challenges they're facing, and what support they need. This effort helps the nurses to plan the patient’s care. Besides, they also keep track of how the patient is doing over time. Ultimately, they adjust the plan as needed to ensure the best support.
Medication management
When a patient has a prescription for medication, a mental health nurse assists them. The nurse explains how the medicine works, what side effects to watch for, and why it's important to take it. Aside from that, they also monitor how the patient is responding to the medication. This aims to ensure its effectiveness and will adjust it if necessary. In some cases, nurses may have the authority to prescribe certain medications themselves.
Therapeutic interventions
Mental health nurses use various therapies to help patients cope with their problems. For instance, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This technique helps people cope with their unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. Besides CBT, they also use other methods such as motivational interviewing and solution-focused therapy. These help to support patients in managing their mental health.
Crisis intervention and de-escalation
In most cases, mental health nurses must respond quickly and calmly in critical situations. For example, when a patient has acute distress, the nurse uses de-escalation techniques to help the patient feel safe. At the same time, they assess the immediate needs and ensure the patient receives the appropriate care.
Collaboration and advocacy
As has been noted above, a mental health nurse works together with other experts in mental health. This collaboration helps the nurse to provide comprehensive care. What’s more about this job is that they advocate for patients' rights. This effort aims to ensure the patients have access to the services and support they need.
Education and Support
Although they mostly work with patients, a mental health nurse also deals with the patients’ families. They provide information on symptoms, treatment options, and coping strategies. This helps nurses encourage the patient to recover quickly. They also offer emotional support to help patients build resilience and confidence in managing their mental health.
Differences between a mental health nurse and a psychologist
Both a mental health nurse and a psychologist help people who struggle with mental health. However, they have different jobs and requirements. Nurses, for example, give direct care and manage medications. In contrast, psychologists focus on assessing mental health and providing therapy. Therefore, here are the differences between those professions:
- Mental health nurses: A mental health nurse typically completes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) focusing on mental health. After that, they register themselves to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). By doing this, they can provide direct patient care, administer medications, and offer therapeutic support.
- Psychologists: A psychologist usually pursues a psychology degree accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS). Next, they take postgraduate training in a specific field such as clinical, educational, or forensic psychology. Psychologists are trained to understand and treat mental health issues through talk therapies and behavioural interventions.
How to become a mental health nurse
To become a mental health nurse in the UK, you must complete a degree in mental health nursing. The degree must be accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This study typically involves a three-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree or a two-year Master of Science (MSc) degree. During your studies, you'll engage in both theoretical coursework and practical placements. As a result, you’ll get skills to support people with mental health challenges.
For the entry requirements, you’ll need five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above. These include English, maths, and a science subject. In addition to that, you need two or three A-levels or equivalent qualifications such as a T-level or BTEC. Some universities also offer degree apprenticeships. This programme allows you to earn while you learn.
After qualifying, a mental health nurse must complete 35 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) every three years. This aims to maintain their registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Besides, this ensures nurses remain updated with current practices and standards. In the end, this role offers opportunities to influence mental health care and contribute to the broader healthcare system.
Be aware of mental health with CCM
A mental health nurse helps people with conditions like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. They assess patients, give medications, provide therapy, and support recovery. Besides, they work closely with doctors and other professionals to help patients feel better. Over time, mental health care has changed from harsh treatments to more caring and community-based support. By offering care and support, mental health nurses make a big difference in people's lives.
Mental health is constantly evolving, with new ways to treat and support people. If you want to dive deeper, the College of Contract Management offers opportunities to learn more. The college offers courses to raise awareness in this field. In the long run, you’ll gain knowledge to treat people with problems better. Join CCM and start your journey towards better well-being!
