Publish date: 29 May 2025
Hear from Debs, as shares the rewarding experiences and daily adventures of her role at AWP.
5:00 AM – Embracing new beginnings
Once upon a time, my mornings started with email notifications and a half-hearted attempt at wall Pilates. Now, they begin with my alarm, reminding me of the meaningful journey I've embarked on in mental health care. I reflect on my life choices with gratitude, knowing my teammates and patients are counting on me. I say my prayers, roll out of bed, and eagerly anticipate the day ahead.
7:00 AM – Arrival: Embracing the Unknown
Walking onto the ward each morning is like stepping onto a stage where no two performances are ever the same. One moment, I’m a carer, the next, a referee, and sometimes - yes, really - a dance partner. I check in, grab my first of many cups of tea, listen to the handover notes, and prepare to meet the day’s characters. The storytelling, persuasion, and crisis communication skills I've honed are invaluable in this setting, making each day a new adventure.
9:00 AM – The Art of Connection (and Breakfast)
Mornings can be unpredictable, so I remind myself that a good shift starts with a solid strategy. I help my wonderful group of elderly patients - start their day with personal care delivered with dignity before serving breakfast. Each interaction, whether it's serving toast or cereal, is an opportunity to connect and build trust. Small wins, like a patient greeting me with a "Good morning, Debs," reminds me why I do this.
10:00 AM – Group Therapy: Where the Magic Happens
Group sessions encourage patients to share, reflect, and learn new skills through activities like morning exercise, gardening, coffee mornings, dance therapy, or an afternoon quiz. It's a collaborative experience where everyone's contributions are valued. We laugh, talk and sometimes sit in silence, appreciating the importance of every moment.
12:30 PM – Lunch and Life Lessons
Lunchtime is filled with light-hearted conversations and gentle persuasion. My marketing background has taught me that communication is about understanding your audience. By addressing concerns and reframing situations, I help patients enjoy their meals and feel cared for.
2:00 PM – The Afternoon Shift: Compassion and Care
As the afternoon progresses, patients may become restless or moods may shift. My job is to stay calm, listen, reassure and provide support. Small victories, like offering a listening ear or a comforting presence, make a significant difference. Teamwork is essential in these moments, ensuring that every patient receives the care they need.
4:00 PM – One-on-One Chats: The Heart of the Job
One of the best parts of my day is sitting down with a patient and just listening. No judgment, no rush. Just two people, talking. When they sense an empathetic ear, patients open up in the most unexpected ways. I hear about childhood memories, heartbreaks, and aspirations. Some stories break my heart. Others shine with hope. Communication is about meeting people where they are, and in this role, that lesson has never felt more important.
5:30 PM – Dinner and encouragement
Convincing someone to eat a balanced meal isn’t too different from selling a product. I highlight the benefits (energy, strength), counter objections (“No, the mixed veg doesn't have secret ingredients”), and sometimes, throw in a little scarcity tactic. “Last portion of the good stuff! Any takers?” Marketing 101.
7:00 – 8:00 PM – Evening Games: Where Teamwork Meets Therapy
Evenings in the older adult ward are all about winding down. Staff and patients bond over milky drinks, board games, and the occasional overly competitive game of Scrabble. “Are you sure that’s an actual word?” a patient asks sceptically. I raise my hands. The group erupts in laughter. Connection, built.
9:00 PM – Handover and Reflection
As the shift comes to an end, we have over to the night shift and reflect on the day's achievements. Supporting our patients and each other is at the heart of what we do.
Why I wake up the next day and do it all over again
Every day in this role is a blend of challenges and triumphs. It's a journey that brings tears of empathy and laughter of joy. Knowing that I make a difference in the lives of my patients and teammates is incredibly fulfilling. Marketing was about brand stories; this is about human stories. And every day, I help shape them in ways I never expected.
