Hidden and unacknowledged: The mental health and psychosocial interventions delivered by school nurses in Western Australia

Abstract

Schools are an important setting for the early identification, assessment and intervention of mental health problems in children and young people. Internationally, many nurses work in schools, but the role of this group with young people experiencing mental health problems has had only limited investigation. This study explored the activities school nurses undertook with young people experiencing mental health problems in Australia. Reporting was guided by the COREQ checklist. Thirty‐one nurses participated in a semi‐structured interview. Data were analysed using the constant comparative method of analysis as developed by Glaser and Strauss (1967). The findings identified that nurses working in schools undertake a complex and sophisticated workload to support this cohort. In addition to assessment and referral for treatment, interventions assisted young people to manage challenging life circumstances, cope with intensely difficult emotions and improve their social and occupational functioning. The work of school nurses with young people experiencing mental health problems is hidden and unacknowledged. A better understanding of the mental health work school nurses undertake can inform enhanced service provision for children, young people and their families. The research findings will be of interest to mental health nurses, education professionals, parents, policy makers and governments.