Introduction
Health disparities remain a major obstacle, and it takes a toll on health workers, nurses in particular. The elimination of disparities requires a thorough analysis of the specific cases and the target groups affected, as well as the actions that can be taken to minimize the problems. This paper addresses the health disparity that I am the most passionate about and, enlightens the causes behind my passion, lists the at-risk population, and proposes the actions that can be taken by both future nurses and some preventive measures that should be in place to reduce the impact of this disparity.
Passionate Health Disparity
The unequal access to mental health care and treatment that I am personally witnessing is another health disparity that touches me deeply. Mental health problems are extensive and influence just about every one of us, although disadvantaged groups face the problem of seeking the right mental health care much more than others (WHO, 2022). This can take a number of forms and may be caused by socioeconomic status, cultural prejudice, lack of healthcare services, and discrimination in the healthcare system itself.
Reasons for Passion
My passion for solving the problem of mental health disparities grows due to the observation of how serious the situation gets when mental illness is not treated. In addition to this, the social injustices that make these disparities inaccessible to many evoke a powerful sense of duty toward ensuring equitable access to mental health care for everyone, irrespective of their social backgrounds (Landreman, 2023).
Vulnerable Population
According to Mongelli et al. (2019), the population groups most at risk of mental health inequalities include members of ethnic minorities, low-income people, the LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and people in rural or underserved areas. These encompassing groups face the intersecting barriers of their health difficulties and the barriers to the services that can help them. The structural inequality, social stigma, limited resources, and geographical isolation just make their challenges more complex, and it will be very hard to find the right method to help them maintain their mental health. Surpassing this kind of challenge requires the application of strategic and targeted measures to ensure fair mental health care for all individuals.
Actions as a Future Nurse
As a nurse of the future, I can contribute to the solution of mental health inequalities by helping to create a system of mental health care that is sensitive to different cultures and available to everyone. It means lobbying for policies that make mental health a priority, taking part in interdisciplinary collaborations that will offer multi-faceted care, and continuing education to widen my knowledge of mental health problems and evidence-based approaches (Stein& Dorner, 2024).
Actions for Prevention
In addition to delivering direct treatment, prevention moves are equally necessary to lower the percentage of mental health disparity. This involves such community programs as outreach about mental health, getting rid of the stigma of asking for help and promoting a culture of self-care (Rogers & Pilgrim, 2021). Moreover, mental health should be included in the school curriculums and workplace wellness programs to promote early intervention and the development of skills that help people to be more resilient.
Conclusion
Health disparities, significantly mental health-related, require multidimensional strategies that incorporate advocacy, education, and prevention. As a future nurse, I am affirmative that I will be an impetus of change, and I will create a healthcare system that gives the highest attention to mental health equity and inclusion.
References
Landreman, L. M. (Ed.). (2023). The art of effective facilitation: Reflections from social justice educators. Taylor & Francis.
MONGeLLi, F., Perrone, D., BaLDUcci, J., Sacchetti, A., Ferrari, S., Mattei, G., & Galeazzi, G. M. (2019). Minority stress and mental health among LGBT populations: An update on the evidence. Minerva Psichiatrica, 60(1), 27-50.
Rogers, A., & Pilgrim, D. (2021). A Sociology of Mental Health and Illness 6e. McGraw-Hill Education (UK).
Stein, K. V., & Dorner, T. E. (2024). From Health-in-all-policies to Climate-in-all-policies: using the synergies between Health Promotion and Climate Protection to Take Action. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 21(1), 110.
World Health Organization. (2022). World mental health report: transforming mental health for all.
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