To mark Mental Health Nurses Day on Friday 20 February, we are celebrating the voices and experiences of our newly qualified nurses (NQNs) and the journeys they have taken as they begin their careers in mental health nursing.
The transition from student to registered mental health nurse can be both rewarding and challenging. Our NQNs have shared honest reflections about their early experiences, the doubts they faced, and the confidence they have gained with time, support, and experience.
Below are some comments from our recent NQNs:
One NQN shared their experience of qualifying later in life and adjusting to the demands of the role.
“Being a NQN was the proudest, most rewarding yet daunting time in my life. I qualified at 39 so I was a lot older than a lot of peers. I had never worked in care before and felt like both of these were a disadvantage.
“My brain felt like a tombola machine, with zillions of thoughts but nothing useful popping out. Intrusive thoughts such as what if no one likes me, how will I fit in, how will I make friends, how am I supposed to remember all of this information, did I learn this at uni, what does that mean, how do I do that again were amongst a few of the thoughts. Roll on 15 months and everything makes sense, I am established, embedded into the team and no longer feel like an imposter. I am learning and thriving every single day, the intrusive thoughts have calmed down and life as a registered mental health nurse couldn’t be any better.”
Another NQN reflected on how placements and team support shaped their confidence as they moved into their first role:
“Starting out as a newly qualified mental health nurse was both challenging and rewarding. After a difficult placement, I doubted myself, but going on to have a really positive placement helped rebuild my confidence and reminded me why I chose this profession. Beginning my first role still felt overwhelming at times there was so much to learn but being part of a supportive team made all the difference. Their guidance helped me grow in confidence and trust my own judgement. I’m still learning every day, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”
Another NQN shared their experience of transitioning into an acute ward environment:
“The transition from student nurse to registered nurse in an acute ward is a whirlwind of emotions and steep learning curves. Fresh out of university, I remember feeling a mix of excitement and sheer terror. The first few weeks were a blur of introductions, orientations, and shadowing experienced nurses. I had to adapt to the fast-paced environment, prioritise tasks, and make quick decisions under pressure. Despite the challenges, I found myself drawn to the unique energy of the acute ward.
“The constant flow of patients, the diverse range of conditions, and the collaborative approach of the healthcare team created an environment where I was constantly learning and growing. I have begun to find my place as a newly qualified nurse in the acute ward and love my role.”
Kenny Laing, Director of Nursing and Quality has a message for Mental Health Nurses Day:
“As a proud mental health nurse, I would like to acknowledge all our mental health nurses today. We play a unique role in caring for people in distress who are often at their most vulnerable. We have pioneered many of the innovations in mental health services and I am proud of the innovation which mental health nurses lead here at Combined Healthcare. Thank you all and happy Mental Health Nurses Day!”
