Emma Williams

Tell us about your career so far, Emma. 

My experience in health sector has been versatile and consequential. I have worked in an acute care mental health setting, both inpatient and community consumer sections. This experience brought out the differences that exist between hospital and community-based nursing care, similar to the variations that are seen when one is looking after a physically ill person in these settings.

From this point, I decided to go into emergency and ward nursing situations within hospitals, where I learned more about how urgent care works. Afterwards, I went into telephone triage nursing, which involved making recommendations for callers, including 13HEALTH callers from Queensland who at times needed assistance or referral to another place of help. Sometimes, the patients were ill with acute medical issues, and/or at other times, they were suffering with psychiatric disorders.

Moreover, my involvement with people from different cultural backgrounds increased my awareness. In CALD communities, I helped individuals dealing with physical as well as mental health problems access essential healthcare services and understand available support networks.

Leveraging on my diverse experiences as a nurse working in various acute and community contexts alongside previous teaching roles, I have established a firm commitment towards aiding persons struggling with trauma, addiction or psychiatric conditions. It is against this background that I pursued a Master of Public Health degree.

Now, having advanced expertise coupled with a broader understanding of mental health as a public health priority, I am determined to continue studying this subject area. The belief that addressing mental health comprehensively is crucial for individual and community well-being drives me.

Why did you choose to pursue this career? 

My decision to now pursue a career in mental health stems from a combination of personal passion and professional experiences. Throughout my life, I’ve been deeply drawn to understanding the complexities of human behaviour and the factors influencing mental well-being. 

My initial exposure to mental health occurred during my nursing training, where I encountered individuals facing various mental health challenges. This experience ignited a profound empathy within me, compelling me to delve deeper into this field. Witnessing the impact that mental health struggles can have on individuals and their loved ones reinforced my commitment to making a difference in this area.

Additionally, my background as a former teacher provided insights into the importance of early intervention and support for mental health issues, especially among young people. I realised that addressing mental health concerns not only improves individual outcomes but also has ripple effects across families, communities, and society as a whole.

Moreover, my experiences working in diverse healthcare settings, from acute care to community outreach, highlighted the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. Recognising mental health as a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, I felt compelled to contribute to its advancement.

Ultimately, my decision to pursue a career in mental health is driven by a genuine desire to alleviate suffering, promote resilience, and advocate for greater awareness and understanding of mental health issues. I am deeply committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by mental illness and fostering a society that prioritises mental well-being.

What is rewarding about your career? 

The most rewarding aspect of my current role is the opportunity to positively impact individuals’ lives and contribute to their well-being on a daily basis. As a health professional, I have the privilege of walking alongside people during some of their most vulnerable moments, offering support, guidance, and empathy.

One of the most gratifying experiences is witnessing individuals make progress in their overall health journey, whether it’s overcoming challenges, developing coping skills, or experiencing moments of clarity and growth. Being able to play a part in someone’s healing process and witnessing their resilience and strength is incredibly fulfilling.

Emma Williams

Moreover, the relationships I build with clients are deeply meaningful. Establishing trust and rapport allows for genuine connections, and being able to provide a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood is immensely rewarding.

Additionally, I find fulfillment in the collaborative nature of my role, working alongside colleagues from diverse backgrounds to provide comprehensive care and support to those in need. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose within the healthcare team enhances the impact of our work and reinforces the importance of collective efforts in promoting health and mental well-being.

Overall, knowing that I have made a positive difference in someone’s life, no matter how small, is what makes my role in health so rewarding. It’s a privilege to be able to contribute to the journey of healing and resilience, and I find immense satisfaction in being able to support others on their path to health and mental wellness.

Are there any parts that you find challenging? 

The most challenging aspect of my current role is navigating the complexities and limitations of the healthcare system. Despite my efforts to connect individuals with appropriate care and support, there are often systemic barriers, such as limited resources, long wait times, and gaps in services, that can hinder the delivery of timely and comprehensive care.

Additionally, working with individuals from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds presents its own set of challenges. Ensuring effective communication, understanding cultural nuances, and addressing potential biases require ongoing effort and sensitivity.

Furthermore, witnessing the profound impact of mental health struggles on individuals and their families can be emotionally taxing. It’s challenging to witness the depth of suffering and the barriers individuals face in accessing the help they need.

Despite these challenges, I remain committed to advocating for improved health and mental health services and providing compassionate care to those in need. Each challenge serves as an opportunity for growth and reinforces the importance of continuing to strive for positive change within the health sector in general.

What does a typical workday look like for you? 

As a triage nurse, my workday is as diverse as the calls I receive. From the moment I start, I’m fielding inquiries from individuals across all demographics and backgrounds. Whether it’s concerned parents of newborns, young children, teenagers, or the elderly, each call brings its own unique set of circumstances. Some may be straightforward, requiring basic public health information, while others delve into acute medical or mental health concerns.

My role involves more than just providing information; it’s about actively listening, assessing the caller’s needs, and offering tailored advice and support. This could range from simple reassurance to directing them to the appropriate services for further assistance. The beauty of my job lies in its unpredictability—no two calls are ever alike, keeping me on my toes and constantly engaged.

In addition to my triage duties, I also serve as a Clinical Nurse within culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. Here, my focus is on youth, adolescents, families, and individuals from CALD backgrounds. My role is multifaceted, involving not only direct client interactions but also collaboration with various stakeholders in the community.

One of my primary responsibilities is to help navigate the complexities of the healthcare system for those I serve. Whether it’s explaining healthcare procedures, facilitating access to services, or advocating for health equity, I strive to empower my clients to make informed decisions about their health.

Working closely with stakeholders such as general practitioners, non-governmental organisations, public health networks, and healthcare services, we form a collaborative network aimed at delivering holistic care. Together, we bridge gaps in care, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, receives the support they need to lead healthier lives.

What are three misconceptions people have about working in the mental health sector?

1. It’s solely about providing therapy and counselling
   While therapy and counselling are important components of mental health care, the sector encompasses a much broader range of roles and responsibilities. Professionals in this field may work in areas such as crisis intervention, case management, advocacy, research, policy development, and education. Additionally, there are roles that involve administrative tasks, such as managing programs or coordinating services, which are essential for ensuring the effective delivery of mental health care.
2. It’s emotionally draining: While working in the mental health sector can indeed be emotionally challenging at times, it’s not always emotionally draining. Many professionals find fulfilment and satisfaction in helping others, witnessing positive progress, and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Moreover, self-care practices, supportive supervision, and peer support networks are often in place to help mitigate the emotional toll of the work.
3. It’s only for people with personal experience with mental illness: While lived experience can certainly inform and enrich one’s understanding of mental health issues, it’s not a prerequisite for working in the mental health sector. Professionals from diverse backgrounds, including nursing, psychology, social work, counselling, public health, and psychiatry, contribute their expertise to support individuals with mental health challenges. What’s most important is having empathy, cultural competence, strong communication skills, and a commitment to promoting mental well-being for all individuals.

What advice would you give to people who are interested in starting a career in the mental health sector?

• Gain relevant education and training: Pursue formal education and training in a field relevant to mental health, such as psychology, social work, nursing, counselling, psychiatry, or public health. Obtain the necessary qualifications and licensure to practice in your chosen profession.
• Develop empathy and active listening skills: Cultivate empathy and active listening skills, as they are essential for building rapport with individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Learn to listen without judgment and demonstrate empathy and understanding towards their experiences.
• Seek diverse experiences: Gain exposure to diverse populations and settings within the mental health sector. Volunteer or intern at mental health clinics, community organisations, crisis hotlines, or advocacy groups to broaden your understanding of different mental health issues and interventions.
• Prioritise self-care: Working in mental health can be emotionally demanding, so prioritise self-care to maintain your own well-being. Establish healthy boundaries, engage in activities that recharge you, seek support from colleagues or mentors, and consider supervision or therapy to process challenging experiences.
• Stay informed and adaptable: Stay informed about developments in the field of mental health, including new research findings, treatment approaches, and policy changes. Be adaptable and open to learning new skills and approaches to best support individuals with mental health challenges.
• Advocate for mental health awareness: Advocate for mental health awareness and destigmatisation within your community and society at large. Use your platform to promote understanding, acceptance, and access to mental health services for all individuals.
• Build a supportive network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of colleagues, mentors, and peers who share your passion for mental health. Collaborate, share resources, and seek guidance from others in the field to enhance your professional growth and development.

By following these pieces of advice, you can prepare yourself for a rewarding career in mental health and make a positive impact in the lives of individuals and communities facing mental health challenges.

What is a question we forgot to ask? What is your answer?

One question that could be asked is: “What are some common challenges faced by individuals working in the mental health sector, and how can they be addressed?”

In response, some common challenges include:

1. Stigma: Despite progress in reducing mental health stigma, it remains a significant barrier to seeking help and accessing services. Addressing stigma requires education, advocacy, and destigmatising language and attitudes.
2. Limited resources: Many mental health services face resource constraints, including funding shortages, staff shortages, and limited access to specialised care. Advocating for increased funding, resource allocation, and innovative service delivery models can help address these challenges.
3. Burnout and compassion fatigue: Working in the mental health sector can be emotionally demanding, leading to burnout and compassion fatigue among professionals. Implementing strategies for self-care, promoting supportive work environments, and providing access to supervision and mental health support services are crucial for addressing these issues.
4. Cultural competence: Providing culturally competent care is essential for effectively supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. Training, education, and ongoing professional development can help mental health professionals develop cultural competence and address the unique needs of diverse populations.
5. Coordination of care: Fragmentation of mental health services can lead to gaps in care and challenges in coordinating services for individuals with complex needs. Enhancing collaboration and communication among service providers, implementing integrated care models, and utilising technology to streamline care coordination can help address these challenges.

Addressing these challenges requires collaboration, advocacy, and a commitment to promoting mental health equity and access for all individuals.

Do you have any other thoughts you’d like to share?

I’d like to emphasise the importance of continued advocacy and support for mental health initiatives, both on individual and systemic levels. Mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, yet it still faces significant stigma and systemic barriers to access and quality care in many parts of the world.

Each of us can play a role in promoting mental health awareness, understanding, and support within our communities and beyond. Whether it’s through open conversations, destigmatising language, supporting mental health initiatives, or advocating for policy changes, every action counts in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for those affected by mental health challenges.

Additionally, it’s essential to prioritise self-care and seek support when needed, especially for those working in the mental health sector or supporting individuals with mental health concerns. Remembering to take care of ourselves allows us to better support others and sustain our efforts in promoting mental health and well-being.

Overall, let’s continue to work together to create a world where mental health is valued, supported, and accessible to all.