Mental Health Nursing Lecture Notes

Introduction

Definition: A component of overall health affecting how we think, feel, and act.
Characteristics:
- Realization of abilities
- Coping with stresses
- Productivity
- Contribution to community
Indicators of Good Mental Health:
- Rational thinking
- Good communication
- Resiliency
- Good self-esteem
Influencing Factors:
- Biological/genetic history
- Individual behaviors
- Communication styles
- Social determinants (income, education, employment, etc.)
Life Stage Importance: Throughout childhood to end of life

Prevalence: Common in the USA (1 in 5 adults)
Types:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Schizophrenia
Characteristics of Poor Mental Health:
- Increased risk of chronic physical illness
- Thoughts of suicide
Serious Mental Illness: Causes disabling functional impairments
- Examples include major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder

Process: Change to improve health and wellness, self-directed life, full potential
Dimensions:
- Health: Managing disease
- Home: Stable place to live
- Purpose: Engaging in meaningful activities
- Community: Supportive social networks

Well-being: Healthy range, coping with stressors
Mental Health Problems: Difficulty coping, includes emotional problems and mental illness

Biological Factors: Neurotransmitter imbalances (dopamine, serotonin, etc.)
Genetic Links: Hereditary patterns
Behavioral Factors: Addictive behaviors, lifestyle choices, trauma
Interpersonal Factors: Family and peer influences
Social Factors: Racism, discrimination, poverty
Cultural Considerations:
- Definition of culture
- Influence on symptom description and support

Nurse's Role:
- Recognize own biases and generalizations
- Avoid stereotypes and prejudice
- Advocate for culturally diverse groups
Communication: Key to effective care
Continuous Process: Becoming culturally competent is ongoing