28, occupational therapist working in mental health. Passionate about the mind, holistic health and nutrition. Love for the outdoors, movement and self-care π
An elderly patient called me over. βI know Iβm in hospital, but Iβm bored and COLD! No one talks to me.β After getting a blanket and coffee, we had a chat. Wards are busy, but our patients get lonely too. She seemed so much happier after. Small interactions have a big impact ππ½
And just like that, Iβve finished my first week on an acute inpatient mental health ward. So happy that years of hard work has led me to my dream job π
@StudentOTs Like a lot of things, itβs what you make of it (within reason)π Tricky as a graduate who is finding their feet in OT but dependent on the team around you. Strong professional advocacy, keeping up with contemporary policy/research and networking always helps to develop skills!
I am actively seeking a mental health career in Plymouth, Devon. I have completed an occupational therapy degree and will be staying in Devon long term. If anyone can signpost me in the right direction, please get in touch. Thank you!
@DPT_Jobs@livewellsw@theRCOT@StudentOTs
@ella_roseveare@DPT_Jobs@livewellsw@theRCOT@StudentOTs Thatβs helpful, thank you for reaching out. As a non-driver, I will only be able to learn once employed. Therefore, commuting opportunities are out of reach for now. Always keeping Dawlish in mind π
Absolutely over the moon to get 93 in my final placement! 12 weeks of complete focus and worth every second. Found a love for service development and consolidated skills in mental health which I can use across my career. Very lucky - very tired ππΌ
For students and qualified occupational therapists, I am creating an induction pack for new staff working in inpatient mental health services. On reflection, If you were either newly qualified or new to mental health, what information would you have found helpful to know?
@SusanMadigan3 Thank you for finding this so quickly! Iβll make sure to add these in and see if I can find any further research. Definitely something Iβve recognised in ward visits. As you say, reality vs statistics are likely much higher so important to have awareness of this!