Why Nursing Education Needs to Focus on Mental Health and Wellness

Nursing is a noble profession that requires dedication, intense training and education, compassion, and technical skill. It’s an emotionally demanding job that requires its practitioners to be physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of providing quality care for their patients. As such, there is a greater need than ever before for nursing education to focus on mental health and wellness. Mental health disorders are on the rise in today’s society. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 4 people worldwide suffer from some form of mental illness. This means that nurses must have a basic knowledge of mental health so they can provide the best care possible to those suffering from mental illnesses. Unfortunately, many nurses receive only limited education on mental health; often it is relegated to a single course or rotation. The importance of mental health and wellness in nursing education cannot be overstated. Mental health is a complex issue that must not be overlooked when caring for patients. Nursing students must be educated on the signs, symptoms, and treatments for mental illnesses. They must also be able to recognize their own signs of burnout and stress and develop coping strategies to better manage these issues. Further, nursing students must learn how to create an atmosphere of acceptance, respect, and support for those living with mental health issues. This means creating a safe space for discussion and dialogue around mental health, encouraging open communication about mental illness, and removing any stigma associated with it. This also includes promoting mental health awareness among both patients and peers. Additionally, nursing education should include topics such as how to recognize risk factors for suicide and how to intervene safely when necessary. Nurses must also be trained on how to assess and refer patients to appropriate mental health care providers. Finally, nursing education should address self-care and stress management. Nurses must be aware of the physical, mental, and emotional toll that the profession can take, and equip themselves with the tools to manage this pressure. This can include learning relaxation techniques, engaging in physical activity, utilizing stress-relieving activities, and knowing when to take breaks. In short, mental health and wellness must be acknowledged in nursing education if nurses are expected to provide quality care. It is essential that nursing students understand the physical, mental, and emotional health of their patients, as well as their own. This includes being educated on how to recognize and manage stress, creating an atmosphere of acceptance for those with mental health issues, understanding how to assess and refer patients for appropriate mental health care, and learning about self-care and stress management. Nurses must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to care for those with mental health issues in order to ensure that all patients receive quality care.