Working in a mental and emotional health pathway as a nurse

Written by Danielle, Senior Community RGN/Paediatric Nurse for children with Learning Disability and Mental Health, within the Specialist Learning Disability Team

There’s something truly meaningful about working in the mental and emotional health pathway as a nurse. I have the privilege of meeting young people and hearing their stories, whether they’re shared through words, creativity, or in silence. I feel that in our work we are creating a compassionate space where they can feel heard, safe, and understood, and where their emotions are explored in a way that’s meaningful to them.

For those young people navigating emotional and mental health challenges, offering a sense of hope and being alongside them in their journey can make all the difference. Supporting parents with patience and understanding is just as important, because they’re navigating these times too.

Witnessing their progress, no matter how small, is deeply fulfilling. To see a young person begin to shine, to feel connected to their world and know they belong, is one of the most powerful and inspiring parts of this work. Their resilience grows over time, and so does their confidence in themselves. The therapeutic relationships we build are like threads in their journey, woven with genuine sensitivity and trust. It’s about recognising who they are and the unique gifts they bring to life. And in return, working with them enriches our lives too, offering new perspectives that lead to growth and deeper understanding.

I have found that using creativity and the arts as tools for self-expression and engagement opens doors when words are not possible, supporting communication and emotional release. Play and symbolic expression offers vital pathways into a child’s internal world too and can feel a more natural way.

I am exploring further how we can offer children and young people with a learning disability, grief and bereavement support to process loss in a compassionate and accessible way; to empower young people to grieve in their own way, that is meaningful to them.

This includes adapting resources and pace to match each child’s communication style and sensory needs, ensuring they feel secure and connected; creative techniques and activities for emotional expression and to feel connected with the person that has died through continuing bonds. This includes pre-bereavement work, supporting families to prepare for anticipated grief, and guiding them in involving their young person in the funeral or creating meaningful ways to say goodbye. I have been able to also liaise with organisations that can support the family as a whole, including siblings, and provide guidance during transitions, such as changes in care or school environments following a loss.

We believe in growing alongside the children and families we work with and in doing so is a privilege.