Swanson discusses patients with OneWorld behavioral health therapists.
area counties. Thirty percent of responses mentioned mental health as the top health issue for this age group. For children ages 11 and under, mental health was mentioned in 12.5% of responses. In Swanson’s example, a sports physical created opportunity to delve into a student’s repeated absences. In other cases, mental health screenings – routinely included in each physical - detect underlying problems. The screeners look for signs of depression, self-harm and other behavioral health concerns. Checking in with young people about their behavioral health is critical. Associate Tania Murrell, BSN, RN, AMB-BC Associate Director of Nursing
Director of Nursing Tania Murrell, BSN, RN, AMB-BC, has noticed a steep incline in adolescent and pediatric mental health issues, particularly in the past few years. While she isn’t sure of the exact reasons for the increase – whether due to the COVID-19 pandemic, screen use or other characteristics of this generation – she does know young people are struggling. “We’ve just noticed that our kids are more isolated,” Murrell said. “They don’t have those strong relationships with friends, they don’t have those strong relationships with parents. A lot of times they’re technology dependent. And so it becomes really, really hard for them to have coping skills that are healthy.” OneWorld specifically works to support young people and their unique needs. That’s one reason why OneWorld has
We’ve just noticed that our kids are more isolated ... And so it becomes really, really hard for them to have coping skills that are healthy.” “ Associate Director of Nursing, Tania Murrell, BSN, RN, AMB-BC
ISSUE 2 2024 | EXCHANGE 13
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