How a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Can Support Your Mental Health

By: Aprill Murphy

by Brittany Bertram, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

When life feels overwhelming, having the right support can make all the difference. That’s where psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners—PMHNPs—come in. These specialized providers care for people facing mental health struggles, substance use issues, and other challenges that impact their psychological well-being.

PMHNPs work with patients of all ages, in all kinds of settings, offering support, treatment, and hope. As mental health needs continue to rise, they play a crucial role in making care more accessible, breaking down stigma, and helping people get the help they need—sooner rather than later.

Some of the most commonly treated mental health disorders include:
• Anxiety / panic disorders
• Behavior disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual developmental disorders)
• Personality disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia

PMHNPs play a crucial role in bridging the gap in mental health services by offering a holistic approach to care by:

  • Diagnosing, treating, and managing acute and chronic mental illnesses
    • Educating patients and families
    • Providing psychotherapy
    • Prescribing medication
    • Coordinating care and making referrals
    • Ordering, performing, and interpreting lab tests or diagnostic studies
    • Advocating for patients
    • Providing preventative care, including screenings and assessments
    • Monitoring progress and offering routine follow-up

In addition to these core responsibilities, PMHNPs often incorporate practical and supportive strategies such as:
• Promoting sleep hygiene
• Encouraging healthy nutrition
• Offering supportive care
• Teaching relaxation and coping strategies

Psychiatric nurse practitioners team up with a variety of other healthcare providers to support people on their journey toward recovery. They work alongside individuals to help them build—or rebuild—important life skills and coping strategies. Their goal is to manage symptoms, highlight each person’s strengths, and help prevent further setbacks, all while keeping the focus on what matters most to the individual.

If you or someone you love could benefit from mental health support, call 402-395-3247 to schedule an appointment. Help is here.

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