What do they do?

Mental health nurses are registered nurses who have specialist qualifications in mental health. They work with psychiatrists and general practitioners to monitor a person’s mental state, manage medication and improve links to other health professionals. These services are provided in a range of settings, such as clinics or in a person’s home. Mental Health Nurses must be registered with the NSW Nurses Board.

(Mental Health Commission WA)

Mental health nurses might have also completed further study in mental health recognised by the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses.

How can they help?

A Mental Health Nurse can provide therapeutic interventions and treatment to support social, physical and mental health, including: Medication education and management, being a liaison point between GPs and psychiatrists, monitoring mood, and providing counselling to manage and contain psychological distress.

(Reference: Australian College of Mental Health Nurses) 

The mental health nurse can:

• work with you to plan your recovery
• help educate you, your family and your doctor about your mental illness and its treatment
• support you to talk to your doctor about mental health
• provide counselling and strategies to deal with emotional difficulties and stress
• help you deal with your symptoms and any medication you take
• link with health professionals involved in your care, like your doctor, a psychologist or psychiatrist, to make sure you get the most appropriate treatment
• help with services like Centrelink, housing and community programs
• talk to your family and support people, if you want
• help you review your mental health care plan with your doctor.

(Reference: mindhealthconnect) 

How do I find one?

Ask your GP or Psychiatrist for a referral or to find out if you are eligible for South Western Sydney PHNs Credentialed Mental Health Nurse Service.

Australian College of Mental Health Nurses

mindhealthconnect – Mental Health Nurse