African American adolescents Presentation
What Specific Age Group or Population you would like to treat? Choose one age group or population that is of the most interest to you to treat as a PMHNP in practice. Discuss common issues and treatment involved with this particular age group or population. Then consider any specific triggers that you have and how ethical issues may arise if your triggers are not resolved? Would you be biased toward that population or someone that is associated with your triggers? What can you do to resolve these issues?
Include the following:
1. Title slide
2. Introduction to Specific Age Group or Population
3. Prevalence of Mental Illness in the Specific Age Group or Population
4. What treatment considerations are unique for the Specific Age Group or Population
5. Psychotherapy Treatment that meets the needs of this Specific Age Group or Population
6. Personal Triggers
7. Ethical Issues to Treat a population associated with your triggers
8. Reflection on how you can overcome or resolve these triggers
9. Conclusion
10. References
Please do the African American population, focus on African American adolescents. Be sure to include a psychiatric diagnosis that is prevalent in that age group.
Title slide:
Treating African American Adolescents: Common Issues and Treatment Considerations
Introduction to African American Adolescents:
African American adolescents face unique challenges that can impact their mental health, including racism, discrimination, and socioeconomic disparities. These experiences can contribute to the development of mental illness and make it difficult for them to access and receive appropriate treatment.
Prevalence of Mental Illness in African American Adolescents:
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), African American adolescents are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to their non-Hispanic white peers. Additionally, African American adolescents are less likely to receive mental health treatment due to stigma, lack of access, and mistrust of mental health professionals.
Psychiatric Diagnosis Prevalent in African American Adolescents:
One prevalent psychiatric diagnosis in African American adolescents is major depressive disorder (MDD). MDD is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in sleep or appetite. African American adolescents may experience additional symptoms such as irritability, aggression, and academic difficulties.
Unique Treatment Considerations for African American Adolescents:
When treating African American adolescents, it is important to acknowledge the impact of their cultural experiences and history of trauma. Culturally sensitive therapy that recognizes the unique challenges faced by African American adolescents can improve treatment outcomes. Additionally, it is important to address the impact of racism and discrimination on mental health and provide a safe and supportive environment for these individuals to express their feelings.
Psychotherapy Treatment for African American Adolescents:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common psychotherapy treatment for African American adolescents with MDD. CBT can help adolescents challenge negative thoughts and develop coping skills to manage symptoms of depression. Additionally, group therapy and family therapy may be effective in addressing issues related to family dynamics and cultural experiences.
Personal Triggers:
As an African American PMHNP, I may have personal triggers related to the experiences of African American adolescents. For example, hearing stories of racism and discrimination may trigger feelings of anger or sadness. Additionally, I may feel a sense of responsibility to help African American adolescents navigate their mental health challenges.
Ethical Issues:
If my personal triggers are not resolved, there is a risk of bias in my treatment of African American adolescents. For example, I may be more likely to overlook symptoms of depression or dismiss the impact of racism on mental health. This could result in inappropriate treatment and harm to my patients.
Reflection on Resolving Triggers:
To overcome my personal triggers, I will engage in self-reflection and seek supervision or consultation when necessary. Additionally, I will participate in cultural sensitivity training and seek out opportunities to learn more about the experiences of African American adolescents.
Conclusion:
Treating African American adolescents requires a sensitive and informed approach that recognizes the unique challenges they face. By acknowledging the impact of cultural experiences and trauma, providing evidence-based treatments, and addressing personal triggers and biases, PMHNPs can improve treatment outcomes and promote the mental health of African American adolescents.
References:
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2018). Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2018-nsduh-detailed-tables.
