OET Speaking Role Play Test 21
Nurse Nishe:
Hello there, I’m Nurse Nishe, a mental health nurse here at the clinic. Thank you for coming in today — I know it can be difficult to talk about how you’re feeling. Would it be alright if I asked you a few questions to understand what you’ve been experiencing?
Patient (Student):
Um… yeah, I guess. I’ve just been feeling really anxious and overwhelmed. It’s been going on for a while now — a few months, maybe more.
Nurse Nishe:
Thank you for sharing that — it’s good that you came in today. Anxiety is more common than many people realise, especially among students. The pressure of academics, new responsibilities, and social life can really build up. But the good news is — with the right support, anxiety is manageable.
Patient:
I haven’t told anyone. I’m just scared people won’t understand. I don’t want anyone at university to find out I’m here.
Nurse Nishe:
I understand that worry. Let me reassure you — everything you share here is confidential. Nothing you say will be told to your professors, friends, or family unless you give permission, or if there's a serious risk of harm. You're safe to speak openly here.
Patient:
I’m just not sure about therapy. What does it involve?
Nurse Nishe:
That's a great question. Therapy typically involves talking with a trained counsellor about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. The aim is to help you understand what's going on and develop coping strategies. You can go at your own pace, and it’s not about judging — it’s about supporting you through what you’re facing.
Patient:
I feel like my studies are slipping because of all this stress. I’m not sleeping well either.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a common effect of anxiety. It can impact sleep, focus, energy, even appetite. Along with counselling, there are some practical things you can start trying right away:
Breathing techniques when you're feeling overwhelmed
Light exercise, even a short walk
Writing down your thoughts in a journal
And maintaining a regular sleep and meal routine
Would you be interested in learning a simple breathing exercise now?
Patient:
Yeah… maybe. I also want to know — are there things I can try on my own, without therapy?
Nurse Nishe:
Of course. Some people start with self-help techniques and see great improvements. We can guide you with tools and resources like apps, worksheets, or support groups. But I would still encourage you to keep therapy open as an option — it's a space where you can process things more deeply.
Patient:
Okay… I guess I’m just scared of being labelled or judged.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s completely understandable. But please remember — asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Many students go through this and come out stronger. You’re not alone.
Patient:
Thanks, Nurse Nishe. This makes me feel a bit more hopeful.
Nurse Nishe:
I’m really glad to hear that. We’ll go at a pace you're comfortable with. You're welcome to come back anytime, and if you’d like, I can help you schedule an initial counselling session or give you some materials to get started today. Would that be alright?
Patient:
Yes, I think I’d like to try that.
Nurse Nishe:
That’s a great decision. You’ve already taken the most important first step by speaking up. I’ll walk you through the next part now.