One of the national practice problems presented in the Global Burden of Disease Research is mental health and substance abuse disorders. Mental health and substance abuse disorders have a significant impact on individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, and substance abuse disorders are a major public health concern.
From a global/nationwide perspective, mental health and substance abuse disorders have a significant impact on nurses, nursing care, healthcare organizations, and the quality of care being provided. Nurses are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health and substance abuse disorders, and they play a critical role in identifying and managing these disorders. Nurses must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to assess, diagnose, and manage mental health and substance abuse disorders to provide quality care to patients.
Healthcare organizations must also prioritize the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health and substance abuse disorders to provide high-quality care. This may involve developing policies and procedures to support the screening and management of mental health and substance abuse disorders, providing resources and training for healthcare providers, and collaborating with community organizations to address the underlying social determinants of health that contribute to these disorders.
In addition to the impact on healthcare providers and organizations, mental health and substance abuse disorders also have significant implications for patients and their families. These disorders can lead to poor physical and mental health outcomes, social isolation, unemployment, and homelessness, among other consequences.
To address the impact of mental health and substance abuse disorders, nurses, healthcare providers, and organizations must prioritize prevention, early identification, and effective treatment. This may involve increasing access to mental health and substance abuse services, promoting mental health and substance abuse awareness, and addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to these disorders. By prioritizing mental health and substance abuse care, healthcare providers and organizations can improve the quality of care being provided and promote better health outcomes for individuals and communities.