I'm an inpatient and a psychiatric nurse

You might be speaking about me @onevalium . I found myself in an inpatient unit studying mental health....

Having lived experience has made me interested in this field. If I didn't have any MH concerns, I'd probably be in denial that MH conditions exist!

I thank my mental health that it has given me understanding and a different perspective on life.

My mental health has given me purpose in life.

I feel you. I have most of the above and I have wanted so many times to get in to mental health services to help others.
It’s probably one of the beautiful things about what we have, it can make us so very empathetic towards others and you just want so much to help people and and make them feel better, because we wish people would do that for us.

You’re very brave. Very very brave. You should be so proud that you’ve gotten to where you are and that you are helping people. I know it is hard and you can feel so empty, alone, isolated, defeated and all the rest of it. But you’re making a difference.

Sending you a big hug and letting you know someone is thinking of you xx

@onevalium I have scars up my arms and I always feel more comfortable with others who do too. I see it as an advantage that you have lived experience, to work in this field. Good luck...

Hi @onevalium

I used to work in community mental health with a bunch of mental health nurses. The most beautiful nurse there had her own lived experience of mental illness. She was the most calming soul. I could talk to her all day! She was amazing with our participants. She understood, empathised and was completely person-centred when it came to their care and recovery. I'm sure you will be brilliant at your work and your own lived experience will enhance that.

Sending hugs

Hanami

Hey @onevalium if you keep pushing through in your recovery, you will make the most amazing psych nurse!

How are you today @onevalium ? Thinking of you. If anything, we need more nurses with lived experience.

For me, I know how many times I was turned away or pushed aside based on the stigma tied to me diagnosis. If only there were people who would listen to me.

Thanks for checking in @tyme

I’m unfortunately still not doing so well but I’m getting all the support and care I need that I can’t give myself ❤️

And perhaps that's probably the best place for now @onevalium . Sometimes, when we just can't do it, allowing others to do it is also a step forward in recovery.

Thinking of you,

tyme