The 26-year-old from Wallasey has completed an Integrated Master of Arts in Mental Health Nursing and Social Work, with graduation scheduled for July 2026.
In 2015, Abigaile struggled with her own mental health, experiencing anxiety and panic attacks that led her to self-harm. Her journey reached a critical point when she attempted to take her own life and was admitted to hospital, an experience that would ultimately ignite her passion for making a difference.
After being discharged from hospital, she was connected to a Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) group in the community, which helped improve her wellbeing.
“With meds and therapy, I improved and figured out the techniques that worked for me, in managing my mental health and recognising any deterioration early on.
“I became pregnant at 19 and following my son’s birth, suffered with postnatal depression. Covid hit when he was 6 months old, so I became very isolated.”
It was during the pandemic that Abigaile realised she wanted to pursue a career in mental health. She returned to her studies, completing an intensive, one-year access course in allied health professions to gain the qualifications needed for university.
Abigaile says she was inspired to pursue this career to advocate for those who may struggle to speak up for themselves.
“I aim to bridge the gaps that I have identified through my own personal experience that I have reflected on as I move further into my recovery.”
Abigaile is sharing her story on World Suicide Prevention Day to send a powerful message: “While it’s really scary to be open about your mental health, there are so many people who are experiencing the exact same thing as you, so please reach out to someone today.”
Her university journey wasn’t without its ups and downs. “I began my integrated masters in mental health nursing and social work when I was 22 years old,” she said. “Beginning the course was a bit of a shock to the system, as I had to figure out how to manage work, university and a young child.”
Abigaile’s final year presented a new set of challenges, she lost her grandfather and had to take on some caring responsibilities for her nan, causing her to consider leaving the course. However, she reached out to Edge Hill’s wellbeing services and her tutors, who provided the support she needed to overcome that last hurdle.
“I was struggling with the balance and demand of placements, exams and essays so I sought support from the University about this. I was directed to wellbeing, where they were able to support me and lecturers were able to support me academically. Some of the support I received is why I’m where I am today.”
Abigaile is set to receive her nursing pin later this year, 10 years on from her last hospital admission.
“While I still have bad periods. I have come a long way to get to this point and I have continued to thrive despite all odds.”
Abigaile is preparing to start her first role as a qualified registered social worker in a community mental health team. She also plans to explore nursing opportunities and in the future she hopes to complete a PhD and her Approved Medical Practitioner (AMP) training.
Find out more about the School of Allied Health, Social Work and Wellbeing and other opportunities to study at Edge Hill, or come along to an upcoming open day.
September 10, 2025
