CMA Post 11 Response

QUESTION: Symptom Media Discussion 11: Access the Symptom Media Film Library, click on Child and Adolescent series area, choose and view the Disruptive Mood Regulation Disorder, Vol.2.

Access the Symptom Media Library:  Film Library 

Consider the following:

How can PMH-APRNs expand their roles to have maximal effects on primary, secondary, and tertiary mental health intervention with children/adolescents and families?

Posts are a minimum of 250 words, scholarly written, APA formatted (with some exceptions due to limitations in the D2L editor), and a minimum of 2 references (which may include the course textbook). Reply to at least one classmate's initial discussion post by Friday at 11:59 PM ET. 

STUDENT’S POST

PMH-APRNs play an important role in identifying mental health concerns in children and adolescents and helping families get the support they need. One thing that stood out to me in Katie’s interview was how upset she seemed about her own behavior. Her mother explained that Katie often cries and feels embarrassed after her outbursts and has even asked for help understanding why they happen. I think this is important because it shows that Katie is struggling to manage her emotions, rather than simply trying to be difficult.

Primary prevention focuses on promoting mental health before problems develop. PMH-APRNs can work with parents, schools, and pediatric providers to educate families about emotional regulation, healthy coping skills, and positive parenting strategies. Parents may not always recognize when behaviors are outside what is developmentally appropriate. Providing education early could help families recognize concerns and seek support sooner. The World Health Organization (2025) emphasizes the importance of supportive environments in promoting mental health among children and adolescents. Secondary prevention involves identifying symptoms early and intervening before they become more severe. Katie’s mother reported that her outbursts began around age four or five and have continued for years. She now experiences multiple episodes each week involving aggression and destruction of property. This shows why PMH-APRNs need to assess the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms instead of assuming a child will grow out of certain behaviors. A thorough assessment should also consider conditions such as disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders. Tertiary prevention focuses on managing established mental health conditions and preventing further complications. For Katie, treatment could include individual therapy, parent training, and family therapy to improve emotional regulation and communication. The National Institute of Mental Health (n.d.) identifies cognitive behavioral therapy and parent training as treatment approaches for children experiencing severe irritability and temper outbursts. Medication may also be considered depending on the diagnosis and severity of symptoms.

I think PMH-APRNs can make the greatest difference when they involve the entire family in treatment. During the interview, Katie became upset because she felt her mother was making her situation sound better than it was. This makes me wonder whether Katie feels that her concerns are being understood. Helping parents recognize what their child is experiencing while teaching children healthier ways to express frustration could improve communication and reduce conflict at home.

References

National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder: The basics. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/disruptive-mood-dysregulation-disorder

World Health Organization. (2025, September 1). Mental health of adolescents. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health