My degree of difference

Helping the mental health of others while on a work placement

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Brooke Lewis, BSc (Hons) Psychology student

From the age of 17, I struggled with my mental health and I would not be here today if it were not for the amazing support network around me. It's one of the reasons I wanted to become a psychologist, so that I will be able to help others to heal in the same way I was. Having decided I wanted to study Psychology, I attended a BU Open Day and fell in love with the place almost immediately. The course talks were given by passionate lecturers, the accommodation looked so nice, and everyone I spoke to seemed really friendly. I knew pretty much immediately that I wanted to become a BU student and to this day I don’t regret it one bit!

I've learned so much on my course, but the highlight of my time here was my placement year, which added to my learning and really confirmed that I have made the right career choice.

I spent it with Steps2Wellbeing, part of Dorset’s NHS. I shadowed psychology wellbeing practitioners (PWPs) and psychologists either online or, occasionally, in person. Despite the impact of Covid-19, Steps2Wellbeing and their staff worked exceptionally hard to help as many patients as possible. It was an honour to work aside them in taking notes, working with admin, creating suicide prevention bots and various other tasks.

It was incredible being able to watch healthcare and psychology professionals help so many people. Every time I shadowed a PWP or therapist, I was in awe of their compassion and professionalism when dealing with patients referred to the system. Additionally, I really valued the flexibility of the shifts I was offered which made a big difference to helping me get the most out of my placement. My time on placement has definitely helped my confidence and showed me I really can become a psychologist in the future. I thought the pressure of hearing struggling patients would crush me, but it didn’t – this resilience made me feel more and more confident with every shift I attended.

It's been a great experience and one that I will look to build on as I start my career in a field that I am really excited about.