Mental health nursing care is often advised in a complex situation where the patient needs constant support and safety. In some cases, people at risk of developing mental health issues can also avail the services of mental health nurses.

All nurses have a responsibility to promote good mental health in order to prevent problems and to support patients who may have a mental illness. Mental health nurses work in a variety of settings and support and treat people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness.

People with mental health problems do not always get the help they need. Often symptoms are not recognised and services have suffered from a lack of funding. Though improving, there is still stigma about having a mental illness. The Royal College of Nursing is continually working in a variety of ways to tackle these issues.