Vulnerable groups can be described by various characteristics that establish barriers to accessing healthcare. Adolescents are a vulnerable group due to their stage of growth which impacts their capacity to make sound decisions. They are susceptible to factors such as pressure to imitate peers, craving to attain more autonomy, exploration of sexual individuality, and enhanced access of technology (Farley, 2020). The post discusses the risks of mental illness and suicide in adolescents and the role of an advanced practice nurse in assisting them in attaining positive outcomes.
Mental illness in teenagers is a grave public health concern and identifying its symptoms and signs remains critical. Depression and anxiety are predominant mental illnesses facing adolescents, with both boys and girls exhibiting dissimilar manifestations of suicidal ideations. In a previous study that sought to assess mental health in vulnerable adolescents, parents and teachers noted that young girls displayed aggressiveness and hyperactivity while boys showed behavioral problems of anxiety and dependency (Farley, 2020). Along with depression and anxiety, emotional disorders can arise and may encompass frustration, mood changes, unexpected outbursts, anger, and sleep disturbances.
Suicide is another key health risk in adolescents that requires greater focus. Juvenile mental health is multidimensional and encompasses several risks. Unlike adults, who understand that cycles of joy and pain are a typical part of human existence, adolescents have not lived long enough to comprehend this (Farley, 2020). Due to lack of knowledge of such a situation coupled with emotional and hormonal changes manifesting in the teen years. The group often believes catastrophic circumstances are best solved by suicide.
Nurses often interact with teenagers in several settings, such as hospitals, schools, and the community. The essence of early interventions is to improve associated outcomes, and nurses need to identify normal disparities in teenage development and behavior changes. If the nurse suspects a risk of mental illness or a sign of depression, they need to interview the patient alone and further evaluate suicide dangers while emphasizing patient safety.
Patients exhibiting potential mental health issues without suicidal fears can be sensitized and referred to a mental health professional. The risk of committing suicide is remarkably high in circumstances of non-fatal self-harm (Farley, 2020). If suicidal ideations are identified, the nurse should establish if the teenager has a plan or in the absence of such, formulate a plan for keeping her or him safe. The nurse can share with the patient’s parents any suicidal thoughts.
Reference
Farley, H. R. (2020). Assessing mental health in vulnerable adolescents. Nursing2020, 50(10), 48-53. Web.