Sexuality and student mental health nurse experience in education and practice

Lesbian, Gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) identifying student mental health nurses (MHNs) in higher education can feel less safe than others which affects performance. People ‘come out’ multiple times and this is difficult in a classroom situation. Lecturers can make a difference to LGBT student nurses experience and this can have an impact on clinical practice. The emotional impact of ‘coming out’ in the classroom can have far reaching consequences for their mental health. The response of educational staff can have a huge impact on the ability to learn and the marks achieved. Student lecturer relationships can have transformative consequences. Student MHN’s make meaning from their educational experiences in the classroom and clinical practice. If they do not see themselves (LGBT perspective) this can affect engagement and motivation. Safe nursing practice is role modelled from lecturer to student and has implications for service user experience in clinical settings