<p>I work on a secure mental health unit, where there are several patients with long-standing mental illnesses who are obese or have high body mass indices. Many patients have hypertension and poor diets, are heavy smokers and are physically inactive.</p>

<p>In my role as a psychiatric nurse caring for individuals at risk to themselves or others, I found the continuing professional development article interesting and informative. I have cared for adults, children and young people in a variety of settings, including emergency departments, acute care wards and mental health hospitals. All of the general hospitals where I work have mental health liaison teams that assess each individual’s mental health presentation and develop a plan of action.</p>