Mental Health & Behavioral Interventions

Activities of the brain give rise to our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Disruption of the normal activities of the brain creates distress, manifest in observable changes in feelings, cognition, and actions. This imbalance in normal brain functioning may be attributable to internal conditions such as infection, a toxin, a genetic predisposition, or induced as a result of alcohol or other drug use.  External factors such as exposure to stressful situations may also induce changes in the brain.

Because a host of factors contribute to these mental disorders, a holistic approach is needed. That is, it is important to address the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of the person. 

Nurse clinicians, educators, and researchers are addressing the continuum of mental health conditions to disorders from prevention, to intervention, treatment, and recovery supports for individuals, groups, and populations. The faculty and students who focus in this specialty area are addressing gaps in the science and translating evidence to practice—all with the goal of preventing mental and substance use disorders, removing barriers for those who need treatment, and promoting the health, well-bring, and quality of life for all we touch.