School nurses as mental health professionals

Thousands of school nurses and occupational (company) nurses in the Philippines possess the potential to serve as valuable mental health professionals within their respective settings. With their regular access to students and workers and experience in care coordination, these nurses uniquely position themselves to support schools and companies in delivering comprehensive mental health services. By leveraging their expertise, these nurses can contribute to the prevention, assessment, early identification/intervention, and treatment of mental health issues.

Firstly, school nurses play a vital role in promoting mental well-being among students. They have direct contact with children daily, allowing them to observe and recognize signs of distress or mental health challenges. School nurses can use their knowledge and skills to conduct assessments, provide early intervention, and collaborate with other professionals to ensure appropriate care is delivered. Their familiarity with school environments and relationships with students enable them to establish trusting relationships, creating a safe space for students to discuss their concerns.

Similarly, occupational nurses working within companies have the potential to address mental health needs in the workplace. They possess a comprehensive understanding of the working environment and the physical and psychosocial factors that impact employee well-being.

Occupational nurses can actively participate in prevention efforts by promoting mental health awareness, facilitating stress management programs, and conducting regular mental health screenings. In cases requiring intervention, they can provide immediate support, referral to appropriate resources, and ongoing monitoring.

Moreover, school and company nurses are skilled in care coordination, a crucial aspect of addressing mental health concerns. They can collaborate with teachers, parents, human resources departments, and external health-care providers to develop comprehensive care plans. These nurses can facilitate communication and ensure a holistic approach to mental health care by serving as a central point of contact. This coordination enhances the effectiveness and continuity of services, ultimately leading to better outcomes for individuals needing support.

Recognizing the potential of school and company nurses as mental health professionals also reduces the stigma associated with seeking mental health assistance. Their presence within educational and workplace settings normalizes discussions around mental well-being, fostering a culture of openness and support. Encouraging individuals to seek help earlier leads to improved overall mental health outcomes.However, it is essential to acknowledge that school and company nurses may require additional training and resources to fulfill their expanded role as mental health professionals. Investing in their professional development, such as specialized mental health training and access to appropriate referral networks, is crucial for ensuring their competence in providing mental health support. Organizations should maintain adequate staffing levels to prevent overwhelming nurses with excessive workloads, enabling nurses to devote sufficient time and attention to mental health-related activities.

The utilization of school nurses and occupational nurses as mental health professionals hold immense potential in meeting the mental health needs of students and workers. Their regular access to these populations, combined with their experience in care coordination, uniquely equips them to contribute to the prevention, assessment, early identification/intervention, and treatment of mental health concerns. By recognizing and supporting their expanded roles, we can create nurturing environments that prioritize mental well-being and contribute to the overall flourishing of individuals within educational and workplace settings.

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Jerome Babate is an executive director hailing from Sydney, Australia. As the head of the Filipino Nursing Diaspora Network, an international organization of Filipino nurses, he passionately advocates for the welfare and empowerment of Filipino nurses across the globe.