Communication strategies to support people experiencing mental health issues
To refresh your knowledge of communication strategies such as empathy, active listening and validation
To identify some of the barriers to effective communication and how these can be addressed
To consider how you could enhance your communication skills when engaging with people experiencing mental health issues
This article explores the use of effective communication for nurses when interacting with people experiencing mental health issues. Emphasis will be on the importance of nurses adopting person-centred communication styles that prioritise empathy, with the aim of developing a therapeutic rapport. The article underscores the role of the nurse in promoting positive mental health outcomes through the use of techniques such as active listening, empathy and validation. The author also details some of the barriers to effective communication and how nurses can address them.
