Nursing assistant, psychiatric care

What does a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care do? – Tasks and work environment

A healthcare assistant in psychiatric care works closely with patients suffering from mental illnesses and disabilities, often on psychiatric wards, housing or outpatient services. Tasks include supporting patients with daily routines such as personal hygiene, meals, and social activities, as well as contributing to a safe and secure environment. The role also involves observing patients’ well-being and reporting changes to nurses and other healthcare staff. The work environment can be challenging and requires attentiveness, patience, and the ability to handle stressful situations, as patients’ needs often vary from day to day.

Salary development over time

The salary for healthcare assistants in psychiatric care has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,700 SEK, rising to 27 900 SEK in 2023, and then to the current level of 28 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of approximately 7.5% over three years. The trend reflects an increased focus on working conditions and compensation in the healthcare sector, especially amid recruitment difficulties and growing demand for staff. Salary development is also influenced by more employers competing for skilled workers and increased awareness of the important work healthcare assistants do in psychiatry.

Healthcare assistant in psychiatric care salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 28 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,900 SEK/month (male, municipal sector)
• Lowest salary for women: 27,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (private sector employee)
• Hourly wage: 172 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: None – women and men have the same average salary
• Regional differences: Small, but municipal positions tend to be slightly lower than private ones

Education and qualifications

To work as a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care, a high school diploma in healthcare and social care is generally required, but it is also possible to be employed with other backgrounds and relevant work experience. Many employers view supplementary courses in psychiatry and care positively. Internships and supervision at the workplace are common parts of the introduction, and personal suitability often weighs heavily in recruitment.

• High school education: Healthcare and social care program (3 years)
• Adult education/vocational training: Possible for adults to supplement
• Psychiatry courses: Recommended for increased competence
• Internship/trainee: Common during introduction
• Personal suitability: Great importance in recruitment

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, extra pay for unsocial hours, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skill development are often offered. Many employers also provide additional vacation days, collective insurance schemes, and support for further education. Working hours can vary, including shift work, which is often compensated with various allowances.

Challenges and competition

The job market for healthcare assistants in psychiatric care is characterized by high demand and good employment opportunities, but there is also a paradoxical recruitment situation with many part-time workers and difficulties in finding full-time positions. Challenges often include managing complex patient cases, work environment risks, and sometimes irregular working hours. The profession requires both mental resilience and the ability to adapt quickly to changing situations. Despite these challenges, job satisfaction is often high for those who enjoy working closely with people and contributing to their well-being.

Tips for those who want to become a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care

To succeed as a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care, it is beneficial to have an empathetic attitude and the ability to meet people where they are in life. Staying calm and resilient under pressure is crucial, especially when patients’ mental states can change rapidly. Good communication skills and patience help build trust and relationships with patients and colleagues. It is also important to be flexible and adaptable to different tasks, and to show respect for both patients and coworkers. Continuously engaging in further training and supervision enhances competence and confidence in the role.

Key facts about Healthcare Assistant in psychiatric care

• Average salary: 28 700 SEK/month
• Salary range: 26,900–30,200 SEK/month
• Education level: High school diploma or equivalent vocational training
• Work environment: Shift work, close patient contact, sometimes challenging environment
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment and increasing needs

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care, there are opportunities to further train as a nursing assistant with a psychiatric focus or take on more responsibility within the team, such as a contact person or supervisor for new colleagues. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for healthcare assistants is very good, with demand expected to grow further in the coming years, especially due to an aging population and increased care needs. Chances of securing permanent employment are good, and there are also opportunities to specialize in areas such as addiction treatment or child and adolescent psychiatry. Career development can also involve further training to become a nurse or other healthcare professions.

Common questions about Healthcare Assistant in psychiatric care

• What is the average salary of a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care?
  - The average salary is 28 700 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - No, both men and women have the same average salary within this profession.
• What is the hourly wage for a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care?
  - The hourly wage is 172 SEK for hourly employees.
• What education is required to work as a healthcare assistant in psychiatry?
  - High school education in healthcare and social care is most common, but work experience and additional courses also count.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market is very good and demand is expected to increase in the coming years.
• What are the duties of a healthcare assistant in psychiatric care?
  - Supporting patients with daily routines, social activities, observation and reporting, and creating a safe environment.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, further education to become a nursing assistant, specialization, and other care-related roles are possible.