Staff Highlight: Cory George

What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing? What drew you to work specifically in the field of mental health?

I have many family members who work in healthcare, including nurses, physicians, technicians, and informaticists. So, I grew up with it. But primarily, my mother’s work as an operating room nurse was one of my main inspirations. She has always been very passionate about being a nurse and helping to empower people to live healthier lives. When I was deciding on a major in college, knowing she had been a nurse for many years and still loved what she did reassured me that nursing would be a fulfilling career choice. I’ve always been interested in psychology and sociology, so naturally, I gravitated toward mental health nursing early in my career. 

What do you find most challenging about working in your role at Skyland Trail?

Finding creative ways to deliver the highest quality care that we can while saving time and money for our patients and our organization. It is important to me that we provide great customer service and collaborate on patient care and organizational needs while conducting our mission with integrity. This can be very challenging at times, but it’s satisfying when I see the outcomes our patients have.

What do you find most rewarding about working in your role at Skyland Trail?

Knowing that what I do here is meaningful and impactful on the lives of our patients as well as the people I work with. It’s always rewarding to see former patients thriving while at Arts in the Garden and other alumni events. 

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in mental health nursing?

Mental healthcare needs talented and compassionate nurses, so I always encourage student nurses or others showing interest in exploring their options in mental health. I recommend they consider their own personality, strengths, and experiences with mental health and how that might influence their career in this field. 

What do you do to unwind and take care of your mental health?

I like to maintain a good work/life boundary. I love what I do as a nurse, but I need my personal time to be revitalizing so I can be fully present with patients and coworkers alike. For my own mental health, I highly value exercise as a means of balancing my life. This includes jogging, lifting weights, biking (especially mountain biking when I can), and playing tennis. I also value creative outlets like cooking and working on projects around my house. Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness are also integral tools that help me reset and focus to manage stress.

What is your favorite mantra or cheerleading statement?

Embrace discomfort. Step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things often.