Research the range of contemporary issues teenagers face today (Adolescence: Contemporary Issues and Resources). Select one issue (besides teen pregnancy) a teenager might come to discuss with a nurse in a health clinic at a local high school. In a 500-750-word paper include the following:
Describe the contemporary issue and explain what external stressors are associated with this issue.
Identify specific questions or assessment tool would you use to screen for this issue.
Outline strategies you, the nurse, would use to establish a therapeutic relationship with the teenager.
Define the legal and ethical parameters regarding what you can and cannot share with the parent or guardian.
Identify specific support options you will provide for your patient and/or their family to access? Include the contact information for the support option.
Title: Mental Health Challenges in Adolescents: A Nurse's Role in Providing Support
Introduction
Adolescence is a critical period of development marked by numerous contemporary issues that can significantly impact a teenager's well-being. One prevalent issue that teenagers may face today is mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. As a nurse working in a health clinic at a local high school, addressing mental health concerns in adolescents is crucial for their overall health and academic success.
Contemporary Issue: Mental Health Challenges
Mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, have become increasingly common among teenagers due to various external stressors. Academic pressure, social media influence, family dynamics, and peer relationships are some of the external stressors associated with these mental health issues. The constant need to excel academically, coupled with the pressure to fit in socially, can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and heightened anxiety among adolescents.
Screening Tools and Questions
To screen for mental health challenges in teenagers, I would utilize assessment tools such as the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) for depression and the GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) for anxiety. Additionally, I would ask specific questions during the assessment, such as:
- How have you been feeling lately?
- Have you noticed any changes in your sleep patterns or appetite?
- Do you often feel overwhelmed or anxious about school or social situations?
Establishing a Therapeutic Relationship
Establishing a therapeutic relationship with the teenager is essential for effective support and intervention. As a nurse, I would:
- Create a safe and non-judgmental environment for the teenager to share their feelings.
- Listen actively and empathetically to their concerns.
- Collaborate with the teenager to set achievable goals for their mental health improvement.
- Provide psychoeducation on coping strategies and self-care practices.
Legal and Ethical Parameters
In terms of legal and ethical parameters, confidentiality is paramount when discussing mental health issues with teenagers. As a nurse, I am bound by confidentiality laws to protect the teenager's privacy. However, if there is a risk of harm to self or others, I am obligated to report this information to appropriate authorities or involve the teenager's parents or guardians.
Support Options
For my patient and their family to access support, I would recommend the following options:
1. School Counselor: The school counselor can provide ongoing support and counseling services for the teenager.
2. Local Mental Health Clinic: Referral to a local mental health clinic for specialized assessment and treatment.
3. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: A 24/7 hotline providing support for individuals in crisis. Contact: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Conclusion
In conclusion,
mental health challenges are significant contemporary issues that teenagers may face today, impacting their overall well-being and academic performance. As a nurse working in a high school health clinic, it is essential to be proactive in screening for these issues, establishing therapeutic relationships with teenagers, and providing necessary support options. By addressing mental health challenges early on and offering appropriate interventions, nurses can play a crucial role in promoting the well-being of adolescents and fostering a supportive environment for their mental health needs.