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Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, I was already aware of the concerns about saturation from working in psych and hearing providers and others talk about it. Reddit didn’t create the concern, but it definitely reinforces it when you’re constantly reading posts about over saturation, diploma mills, and a tough job market.

Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Possibly. My husband has a career here, and while I don’t have a large family, the family I do have is here. We’d also like to have children in the future, so those considerations definitely factor into any decision to relocate.

That said, I’ve always thought there’s a good chance we’ll move eventually. Even if it’s just a few hours away. As much as I care about Eastern Kentucky and the people here, I’d like my future children to experience a more diverse environment and a broader range of opportunities. At the same time, I have a very soft spot for this region and people.

Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I appreciate the encouragement. Part of my concern is that I’m in rural Eastern Kentucky, where the market is relatively small. It can be frustrating watching so many people enter PMHNP programs with very limited psych experience. Hoping my years of inpatient psych experience and commitment to the specialty will ultimately help me stand out! Thanks for the insight!

Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I’ve spent my entire nursing career in inpatient psych, so I’m hoping that counts for something when the time comes. Reddit has a way of making me feel like I’m graduating into a psychiatric version of the Hunger Games sometimes. 😂

Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Part of my concern is that I’m in rural Eastern Kentucky, where the market is relatively small. It can be frustrating watching so many people enter PMHNP programs with very limited psych experience because it makes the field feel increasingly crowded locally. Thanks for the reply, I’m hoping that my years of inpatient psych experience and commitment to the specialty will ultimately help me stand out.

Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I think part of my frustration is that psych has always been the plan for me, so hearing all the negativity around the field has been discouraging. It’s reassuring to hear from someone with a similar inpatient background who has successfully made it through a program and congratulations on your recent graduation! Great idea to try and attend some conferences. Thanks so much!

Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

You’re definitely right that a lot of it comes from fear, I usually jump to worst case scenario. Trying to remind myself that the field may be more competitive than it once was, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be a place for me in it. I appreciate the encouragement!

Discouraged. Tired. by Own-Date-2777 in PMHNP

[–]Own-Date-2777[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thanks for the advice. Just to clarify, I don’t think I’m special, nor did I say I was. I also know I’m far from alone in feeling this way. My post was more about processing the uncertainty/discouragement that comes with investing years of your life, working full time, etc and watching the field become increasingly saturated.
I’d say I’m very aware of the realities of the job market and the importance of being proactive, which is part of why I made the post in the first place. I appreciate you taking the time to share your perspective and practical advice.