(Photo : The Rewards of Psychiatric Nursing)

Nobody pretends that it's not a challenging profession which demands real commitment from those involved, so what is it about psychiatric nursing that makes it so appealing? It's a career that people dedicate their whole lives to, and it could prove just as rewarding for you. What's the secret?

You can really make a difference

Everybody likes to feel that what they do is making a difference. The people you'll be working with as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) are among the most vulnerable in the country - people who are, very often, unable to advocate for themselves and may have difficulty articulating the struggles they face. They may be in a lot of distress or simply find it impossible to take care of themselves. You will be able to bring them comfort and, in some roles, help them to recover and live satisfying, independent lives. You may be the first person they've met for years who they really feel is on their side.

You'll have lots of options

There's a big demand for psychiatric nurses at present and the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic means that demand is likely to increase. This means that there are lots of opportunities available, whether you're just starting out or seeking to progress in your career. Once you're certified, it's easy to move between roles and explore different options. Some people find one to one work with patients most rewarding because they enjoy having that connection and positive results are immediately apparent. Others pursue routes like research so they can make a difference on a larger scale.

You'll have time to get to know your patients

In most face to face psychiatric nursing roles, you'll find that you get considerably more time with individual patients than in other types of nursing job. Vulnerable patients usually like things to be familiar and really benefit from being able to form a human connection with the people looking after them. You'll be able to help those who feel cut off from their families and other forms of social contact, and where they are able to recover, you'll be able to see their progress and know what your efforts have made possible.

You can earn a good wage

Working in this type of role doesn't require a financial sacrifice. Psychiatric nurses usually make at least the average US wage from the get-go, with many making considerably more. You won't need many years' experience to progress to the next level, and this is an area where hard work and diligence really do pay off. In most roles, you will also have the chance to study while you work, increasing your earning potential.

This is the kind of work that turns lives around, and it could make a huge difference to yours. It can be arduous, and it can be emotionally taxing, but it is always worthwhile. If you're drawn to caring for others, you won't find many career options as rewarding as this.