Many children face special issues that impact everyday life, whether it is within themselves, their families, or their environment. The PMHNP must be sensitive to these many issues that children and adolescents are faced with during important developmental years. In this Discussion, you select a special population and analyze the psychological issues that the population faces. You also address the assessment and treatment needs of the population.
Introduction
Children and adolescents face a wide range of psychological issues that can have a significant impact on their everyday life. These issues may arise from within themselves, their families, or their environment. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), it is crucial to be sensitive to the unique challenges faced by different special populations during their important developmental years. This discussion will focus on selecting a special population, analyzing the psychological issues they face, and addressing their assessment and treatment needs.
Selection of a Special Population: LGBTQ Youth
One special population that has gained increased attention in recent years is lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth. LGBTQ youth are individuals who identify as a sexual or gender minority, which can include a diverse range of identities and orientations. These individuals often face unique challenges and psychological issues due to societal stigmatization, discrimination, and internal struggles related to their sexual or gender identity.
Psychological Issues Faced by LGBTQ Youth
LGBTQ youth are at an increased risk for experiencing mental health issues compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers. Research consistently indicates that this population faces higher rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts (Marshal et al., 2011; Grossman & D’Augelli, 2006). These mental health issues can be attributed to various factors, including internalized homophobia/transphobia, social rejection, bullying, and lack of support from family and peers.
Internalized homophobia/transphobia refers to the negative beliefs, self-doubt, and feelings of shame that LGBTQ individuals may internalize as a result of living in a heteronormative and cisnormative society (Herek, 2009). LGBTQ youth often struggle with accepting their sexual or gender identity due to societal messages that stigmatize and invalidate their experiences. This internal conflict can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and a sense of not belonging, which may contribute to the development of mental health issues.
Social rejection and bullying are pervasive issues faced by LGBTQ youth in various settings, including schools, families, and communities. The persistent experience of stigma, harassment, and violence can have detrimental effects on their mental health and well-being. These experiences can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as a higher likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, substance abuse, and self-harm (Russell et al., 2011; Ryan, Russell, Huebner, Diaz, & Sanchez, 2010).
Support from family and peers plays a crucial role in promoting the mental health and well-being of LGBTQ youth. However, many individuals in this population experience rejection, discrimination, and lack of acceptance from their families and friends. Lack of support networks can amplify the impact of other stressors and contribute to heightened levels of distress and psychological problems (Ryan et al., 2009; Toomey, Ryan, & Russell, 2013). It is important for healthcare providers to recognize the role of social support and work towards creating a safe and affirming environment for LGBTQ youth.
Assessment and Treatment Needs of LGBTQ Youth
When working with LGBTQ youth, it is essential for PMHNPs to create a safe and affirming environment where these individuals feel comfortable discussing their sexual or gender identity and any related concerns. Open and non-judgmental communication is critical in building trust and rapport. Validating their experiences, feelings, and challenges can help reduce the impact of internalized homophobia/transphobia and foster a sense of acceptance.
The assessment of mental health needs should consider the specific experiences and issues faced by LGBTQ youth. Screening tools that assess for depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and substance abuse can be utilized (Russell et al., 2009; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016). Additionally, it is important to assess for experiences of bullying, rejection, and familial support as these factors play a significant role in the well-being of LGBTQ youth.
Treatment approaches for LGBTQ youth should be tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. Psychotherapy, such as individual or group counseling, can offer a safe space for exploration, validation, and coping skill development. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) are evidence-based approaches that can be particularly helpful in addressing anxiety, depression, and internalized stigma (Pachankis et al., 2015; Gonsiorek & Richards, 2020).
Conclusion
LGBTQ youth face a range of psychological issues that are rooted in societal stigmatization, discrimination, and internal struggles related to their sexual or gender identity. PMHNPs need to be well-informed about the experiences and challenges faced by this special population to provide effective assessment and treatment. Creating a safe and affirming environment, screening for mental health concerns, and employing evidence-based therapeutic approaches are key components of comprehensive care for LGBTQ youth. By understanding and addressing these unique psychological issues, PMHNPs can support the healthy development and well-being of LGBTQ youth.