Student nurse looking for advice on landing a job at a psychiatric facility

[TheNew1]

Hey yall,

I have an opportunity to apply for a job as a nursing assistant or peer support specialist at a local mental health facility. A guest speaker came to our class and provided information about the facility and the jobs available for students, as well as opportunities after we graduate. After the presentation I approached her seeking more information about applying, she said I could use her as a referral. I also divulged how I struggle with paying for medication to treat my bipolar disorder, she gave me a number to call so I could receive assistance. Upon learning about how well I have been managing my illness she also suggested I look into the position of a peer support specialist.

I have decided to wait on applying until after a clinical rotation at the facility in hopes of connecting with not only the patients, but also the staff.

Besides a positive attitude and desire to learn, what other things can I do during my clinical rotation that would help me stand out? Working in the psychiatric field has always been my dream and I really do feel that it is my calling.

Long story short, I'd like to hear some clinical experiences (good and bad) and any extra tips to present myself in the best way possible.

I look forward to your responses :)

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

I have worked in Behavioral Health for 5+yrs. It too is my calling. I have one concern and I apologize because it is not a popular thought. What happens when you struggle with your bipolar disorder? Can you continue to be an advocate for your pts? I have seen so many nurses (all with different diagnosis) fall apart, have to leave sick, cry, call in for an extended period of time to manage their illness. Taking care of yourself is number one. I worked with a nurse who was manic, picked up several double shift, could not focus, could not actually be there for the pts when that nurse really needed support at that time.

I am in no way thinking you should stay away from Behavioral Health, just remember that it's not easy when you're not feeling good. If a nurse can leave their junk at the door, work the shift, then pick it up back at the door, then go for it!

[Jules A, MSN]

I'm sure others will have a different opinion but I recommend not disclosing your personal history to patients or colleagues. It really isn't necessary for your people who you are dealing with on a professional level to know your personal business. There is still quite a stigma and I would be concerned you will be put under a microscope especially as a new nurse. If you want to work in psych I would not recommend being a peer advocate. Psych is such a small world and I think it would compromise your therapeutic interactions as a nurse if a patient recognizes you and knows your personal story. Just my two cents.

[MrChicagoRN, RN]

It's a peer support position. Those are usually filled with people who have come back from experiencing mental illness. That would require some disclosure.

New1, my concern would be if you moved into that position you don't know how that would affect future prospects. Would it help leverage you into a nursing position after graduation, or would you be pigeonholed as a peer specialist. This happens not only in mental health, but in many other fields too. An example is an actor who is typecasted, or the new RN who is still kinda seen as the former CNA and still treated a bit differently.

It'd be great if you get a psych clinical rotation there and you can scope them out.

Good luck.

[jmpenn27]

Ask questions, stay alert, make it known this is your area of interest. Speak to the Advance nurses on the unit. Share your love that this is your area of interest. Psychiatric nursing care is knowing when to be understanding and when people's psychiatric disorders need your firm reactions. As an Emergency Room Psychiatric Nurse safety of my self, safety of those around me and safety of the patients come first. Thinking on your feet and making the appropriate decisions are a must. And know the medications, be a willing teacher... That and many other like what chevyv states below

know your self and take care of self always...