How Can You Become A Mental Health Nurse

Did you know? 

1 in 5 people in the UK has suicidal thoughts. 

1 in 15 people attempt suicide. 

And 1 in 14 people self-harm. 

(Learn more) 

The mental health crisis has plagued almost every household and community at some point and in some way. So much so, that we all know at least one person who is struggling and needs professional help. Although largely invisible, mental health issues can have a serious life-changing impact on people if they are neglected. 

This is why there is an increased need for a stronger and more accessible mental health system to combat this issue. If you like the idea of and want to help patients suffering from mental illnesses, becoming a mental health professional may be the right career path for you. And there is no better time than now or a better place than the University of Bolton to support your journey.  

Things To Know Before Becoming A Mental Health Nurse 

Becoming a mental health nurse will allow you to have a positive impact on people struggling with issues. To give you a better perspective, below are some of the responsibilities of a mental health professional:  

- Assessing your patient’s mental health status 

- Keeping check on their needs 

- Working out treatment plans

- Ensuring adherence to treatments 

- Helping with counselling and treatment (if qualified) 

How To Become A Mental Health Nurse 

Step 1: Get A Relevant Degree 

Students looking to become a mental health nurse must take up a course that specialises in this field. This can be done via:  

A University Course 

A nursing degree will offer you a solid foundation for becoming a mental health nurse. The general entry requirements are 104 UCAS points, and qualifications at GCSE (or equivalent) level at grade C or above or grades 4 to 9, including English and Mathematics. View courses.

Choosing An Apprenticeship Degree 

The University of Bolton offers BSc (Hons) Nursing- Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (Mental Health), a holistic 3-year course that provides theoretical know-how and practical, on-field experiential learning. However, this course is only applicable to employees of The Priory Group, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. Students who are already a part of these hospitals can choose to upskill themselves with this degree. View apprenticeships.

Step 2: Gain Experience 

If you opt for an apprenticeship degree, you will have the opportunity to work in a hospital environment from an early stage. Those that choose not to opt for this can go the traditional route and opt for general apprenticeship positions in hospitals and clinics. Apprenticeships are where the learning curve is the fastest, providing a more hands-on experience.  

Some students who already have a nursing degree but wish to become mental health nursing specialists, need to opt for a conversion course.  

Why Choose the University Of Bolton’s BSc (Hons) Nursing- Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (Mental Health) 

This course offers a synergistic combination of theory-based learning and work-based training experience. It allows you to develop the necessary skills and knowledge needed to support those suffering from mental health. It takes a more hands-on approach and teaches you how to deal appropriately with people needing support with their mental health, right from the start. This well-planned registered nursing degree prepares students to provide the right care to extreme cases requiring long-term assistance with mental health needs. 

Key Benefits 

- One-on-one sessions with experts and assigned personal tutor to support you through your studies

- Access to the £31 million Bolton One building, including Clinical Simulation Suites 

- Online access to course material 

- Quarterly and annual reviews for better learning and in-depth assessment 

Want to make a difference in the lives of the vulnerable? Build your career by choosing a course that matters! Call us on 01204 903807 or email us at enquiries@bolton.ac.uk to learn more about this course.