THE ROLE OF NURSES IN PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS
Angeliki Bilali, Ioannis Koutelekos, Chrisoula Dafogianni
Monday, July 1, 2024
Publication year:
2024
Authors:
- Bilali Angeliki, RN, MSc, PhD, Athens Children's Hospital P&A Kyriakou, Health Quality Assurance Organiza-tion, Athens, Greece.
- Koutelekos Ioannis, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Nursing A',Technological Educational Institute of Athens
- Dafogianni Chrisoula, MSc in Applied Clinical Nursing, University of West Attica, Department of Nursing, Athens, Greece
Keywords index:
Pages: 242-252
Abstract:
Nurses are often the first point of contact in promoting the mental health of children and adolescents, utilizing the relationship of trust they develop for the early identification and treatment of difficulties. Aim: This special article examined the role of nurses in promoting the mental health of children and adolescents. Methodology: A literature review was conducted in international databases (PubMed, Google Scholar) using selected keywords in Greek and English, evaluating articles, books, and online references. Results: The review highlighted the need to improve access to mental health services internationally, with nurses playing a central role in supporting children and adolescents. In addition, significant impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and social media use on the mental health of children and adolescents were recorded. It is emphasized that nurses need to apply appropriate psychological and communication practices, ensuring equal access for all children, adolescents, and their families. Conclusions: There is a need to strengthen education and research in promoting the mental health of children and adolescents, as well as closer cooperation with health services, so that future nurses can respond effectively to the needs of the vulnerable youth community.
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