A mental health nurse is a specialist in nursing who focuses on the emotional and psychosocial well-being of individuals suffering from mental disorders. The care is provided through therapy, including counseling, psychoeducation and psychotherapy. Medication management may also be necessary. Mental health nursing also plays an important part in advocating to improve access to high-quality mental healthcare.
The current legal issues around mental healthcare are a result of the disparity in services between mental and physical health (i.e. Inadequate insurance coverage can make it difficult for people to get the treatment they need. There are also social issues surrounding stigmatization of mental illnesses, which may prevent some people from getting help out of fear or discrimination. The need to develop comprehensive programs and policies to improve awareness and access to healthcare across all populations is highlighted by these issues.