How Mental Health Nursing Captured Lauren's Heart

Now twelve months on from completing her studies and becoming a registered nurse, Lauren could not be happier with her career choice. But it's specialising in mental health nursing that has truly captured her heart.

“I chose to pursue mental health nursing as I have always had a passion to help and support individuals through their mental health journey,” says Lauren.

“The ability to connect and make a difference in someone’s life can be deeply fulfilling.  

“As a mental health nurse, you learn how to use effective communication, empathy, and active listening to support your patients, helping them to set goals, improve coping strategies and regain control of their lives and move toward recovery.”

Reflecting on her new graduate year at Kellyville Private Hospital, a specialist mental health facility dedicated to providing holistic, person-centred care, Lauren is grateful for the incredible support she received.    

“The first year as a nurse can be overwhelming and challenging at times, so it's important to surround yourself with a good support system and take the time to reflect on and acknowledge your achievements,” says Lauren.  

“Working alongside the amazing team of nurses, doctors and allied health professionals at Kellyville Private Hospital has helped me develop my skills to navigate and adapt to new challenges as I encounter them.

“Getting to grow and learn in a supportive environment has helped me to build up my confidence, as I begin my nursing career.”

Although Lauren acknowledges that mental health nursing can be challenging, she declares that it is also extremely fulfilling and rewarding. And for any new graduate nurses thinking about a speciality in mental health nursing, her advice is to take the opportunity!  

“Building therapeutic relationships with patients and being part of their recovery journey, can be very empowering and offers a deep sense of purpose and satisfaction,” says Lauren.  

What does the future hold for Lauren?  She plans to continue her growth at Kellyville Private Hospital and aspires to one day, being able to share her knowledge, experience and passion for mental health nursing with others as a nurse educator.  

"I hope to be able to educate nurses on the complexities of mental health care to promote awareness and improve the quality of nursing care patients receive,” explains Lauren.