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Understanding Mental Health Prevention Strategies

Mar 2, 2025

Prevention of Mental Health Disorders

Introduction

  • Presenter: Cathy from Level Up RN
  • Topic: Primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of mental health disorders.
  • Context: Final topic in the principles section of the psychiatric mental health nursing flashcard deck.

Types of Prevention

Primary Prevention

  • Objective: Prevent mental health disorders by decreasing risk factors and increasing protective factors.
  • Activities:
    • Youth groups and clubs: Strengthen community bonds and support.
    • Parenting classes and education: Focus on preventing substance abuse.
      • Note: Substance abuse is a significant risk factor for mental health disorders.

Secondary Prevention

  • Objective: Early detection and prompt intervention of mental health disorders.
  • Key Activity: Screening.
    • Examples:
      • Screening patients for depression and suicide risk.
      • Support through suicide hotlines and crisis centers.
  • Mnemonic: "S" for Screening and Secondary.

Tertiary Prevention

  • Objective: Promote recovery and prevent complications after a mental health disorder or crisis.
  • Interventions:
    • Outpatient support post-hospitalization.
    • Pharmacological therapy for ongoing mental health disorders.
    • Support groups for family and friends of individuals who have committed suicide.

Conclusion

  • Understanding these levels of prevention is crucial for nursing students.
  • Next steps: Upcoming video will cover therapies.
  • Engagement: Viewers are encouraged to subscribe, like, and comment on the video for further engagement and feedback.