I am applying for a mental health degree in nursing because I would like to support and treat
those with mental illness. My ambition to study for a degree in mental health nursing has
developed out of my working in the caring profession and helping to solve problems of patients
suffering from mental disabilities. Studying at the university will help me to expand my
knowledge and skills in mental healthcare. Also this presents me with a variety of roles I can
take up with my degree. Mental health problem is one of the most common health problems and
can affect people of all ages and classes. It is therefore important to promote mental health
illness to the public as most people are uncomfortable to talk about mental illness. The
opportunity to make a difference to the lives of those affected with psychological conditions
offers the prospect of true personal and professional fulfilment to me.
I have worked as a healthcare assistant in nursing homes, dementia homes, supported livings,
mental health home and hospital which have made me to gain extensive experience of working
with patients with mental problems. This experience has also given me a real and practical
understanding of challenges of the mental health nurse’s role. My training in diploma level 3,
NVQ level 2, mental health and challenging behavior lays for me a foundation in this
professional life. Working as mental health nurse requires more than just academic knowledge
but requires excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills and human empathy. My
communication skills are excellent as I have improved through several years of working
experience. Good communication is required to build positive and therapeutic relationships.
Patients with dementia may lose the connection between the neurons in the brain resulting in
inability to speak. I assisted them by use of pictures to remember their hobbies and interests.
More so, this will help me to interact well with my tutors and fellow students at the university.
I am hardworking and enthusiastic about my career. I have good interpersonal skills as working
with mental health patients requires one on one interaction between professionals, clients and
care providers. Collaboration is essential for successful teamwork and care plan delivery. The
university has students from all cultural diversity hence I will be able to interact with different
cultures and learn from them.
Having done an online course in business management, my organizational skills are greatly
improved and can take up any leadership role. Working in different healthcare system has
impacted me with leadership skills as I was often assigned with various task to manage. I have
strong analytical skills, am able to work well under pressure and requires minimum supervision.
Mental healthcare required teamwork hence my teamwork skills are great. My skill set will
enable me to take up new and challenging opportunities at the university. I am a goal oriented
person and believe that I have the necessary qualities to becoming a successful mental health
nurse. With the skills I have acquired working as a healthcare assistant in different mental
healthcare settings for sixteen years I believe I would be able to overcome the challenges of
learning mental health nursing at the university. I am purposeful and clear sighted in my
ambitions and I hope you will consider my application.
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