Nurses Play Vital Role in Treating Mental Health Conditions in Children

• Mental health conditions in children encompass a range of issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, and various mood disorders.  
• Nurses should practice active listening, validate their patients’ feelings, and assure them that the hospital is safe for self-expression without fear of judgment.  
• Collaborating with and coordinating care with multidisciplinary teams is essential for patient care.  

Mental health conditions in children and adolescents are rising, and nurses take the lead in patient care.  

Pediatric patients with mental health diagnoses require a unique and gentle approach that nurses, with their specialized skills and knowledge, are uniquely equipped to provide. This approach links clinical expertise, compassion, and understanding of their developmental needs.

Understanding and Identifying Mental Health Conditions in Children 

Mental health conditions in children cover a range of diagnoses, including anxiety disorders, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, and various mood disorders.  

The manifestation of mental health conditions can vary based on developmental stage, gender, environmental influences, and individual personality traits, according to the Mayo Clinic. Children often face challenges articulating their emotions and experiences. As a result, they may express their distress through behavioral changes rather than verbal communication. 

Increased irritability, social withdrawal, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleeping or eating patterns can indicate the potential for a mental health diagnosis. 

A child experiencing anxiety, for example, might frequently report stomachaches or headaches without any medical cause. Staying familiar with these signs and symptoms helps nurses identify and intervene in the event of mental health concerns, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of their young patients.  

Building Trust and Consistency with Pediatric Patients

When working with pediatric patients, use age-appropriate communication. Speak in simple terms with younger children, and show empathy and respect when addressing teenagers.  

Also practice active listening, validate your patients’ feelings, and assure them that the hospital is safe for self-expression without fear of judgment. Active listening is a fundamental skill that consists of hearing what the patient is saying, observing nonverbal cues, and responding appropriately. Incorporating play or creative activities can help younger children open up and feel safe during these conversations. Building rapport takes time, but helps foster a sense of safety and influences the quality of care you’re able to provide. 

That said, don’t shy away from discussions that acknowledge your patient’s feelings or opinions. Teenagers, a common age group seen in the hospital for mental illness, may appreciate a more conversational tone and benefit from being involved in decision-making regarding their care.  

Include Family in Care Plans

Families are essential to pediatric patients’ mental health, and their mental health often reflects their home environment. Families should be educated about their child’s condition, treatment options, and coping with a new diagnosis.  

Some parents may feel guilty over the diagnosis. Others might view mental health as a stigma, which can hinder a patient’s recovery. Normalizing discussions about emotions and mental health can help empower patients with coping skills, such as mindfulness or deep breathing exercises. Nurses can also encourage positive reinforcement to boost the patient’s self-esteem. Focusing on the patient’s strengths and achievements aids in promoting resilience and helps them navigate challenges when they may seem overwhelming. 

Collaborative Approach to Care

As always, in nursing care, we must collaborate! Nurses can coordinate services such as arranging a consult for psychiatry and counseling services, working with schools to implement education plans and accommodations, and connecting families with a social worker to find community sources. Working as a team is the best way to ensure the patient gets all the resources needed to succeed in recovery. 

The Bottom Line

Nursing care for pediatric patients with mental health conditions is as much about understanding and empathy as it is about clinical interventions. By building trust, involving families, and promoting a supportive environment, nurses can make a profound difference in pediatric patient’s lives. With the proper approach, every patient has the opportunity to thrive living with their mental health conditions. 

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