Dr. Deana Batross Discusses the Current Mental Health Crisis ahead of Graduate Lecture Appearance on Feb. 21

Posted Feb 16, 2023

Dr. Deana Batross is a visiting professor of nursing at 9i果冻制作厂 and is dual board certified as a psychiatric mental health and family practice nurse practitioner. She has a practice at Mount Carmel Medical Group in New Albany and Johnstown, Ohio. She is a proud graduate of Otterbein鈥檚 Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner programs. She recently presented at the American Psychiatric Association’s national conference regarding trauma, substance use, and mental health disorders.   

On Feb. 21, she will discuss 鈥淭he Current Mental Health Crisis鈥 for the . We reached out to her for a preview of her lecture. 

What are some of the causes of the mental health crisis in the United States? 

Batross: There are many different causes of the mental health crisis in the U.S. today. This includes social isolation, economic instability, political turmoil, racial violence, social media violence, bullying, death and sickness, and uncertainty about the future. To make matters worse, there is a shortage of available providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, advanced practice nurses, social workers, and licensed counselors, to name a few. 

How are people of different demographics (age, gender, race, geographic, or socioeconomic status) impacted differently by the mental health crisis? 

Batross: Mental illness affects all ages, from young to old. Many do not seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental illness, and for most of those suffering, there is limited access to care. This can be due to cost and lack of insurance coverage, high insurance deductibles, inadequate transportation to make it to appointments, and difficulty with technology for telehealth appointments. Some may not recognize their symptoms of mental illness, and the healthcare community can help educate the public to decrease suffering.  

How has the stigma around mental health changed over the years? 

Batross: The stigma surrounding mental illness and mental healthcare has decreased significantly in recent years. More people are open and honest about their struggles and are reaching out for support.  

What can individuals do to change attitudes about mental health? 

Batross: Individuals can change attitudes by having honest and open communication regarding mental health with their family and friends, letting them know they care and are supportive of them.  

What is the role of psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioners in addressing the current crisis? 

Batross: The role of the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner includes assessing the patient and coming up with a solid diagnosis and treatment plan in conjunction with the patient. The treatment plan can include medications and therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy to improve their symptoms.  
 

Learn more from Batross at the Graduate School Lecture Series event: 

鈥淭he Current Mental Health Crisis鈥 

Featuring Dr. Deana Batross 

Tuesday, Feb. 21, in room 140 of The Point, 60 Collegeview Road. 

Reception: 5 p.m.  

Lecture: 5:30 p.m.