Good interaction skills are not enough – competency in mental health issues in child health clinics and school health services

BACKGROUND: Mental health problems among children and adolescents are a worldwide issue of concern. Health professionals who have sufficient competency in mental health issues are crucial for responding to this situation. AIM: The aim of the study was to describe the competency in mental health issues required by the work of public health nurses in child health clinics and school health services. METHODS: This qualitative, descriptive study was conducted with focus group interviews in March 2018. The sample consisted of public health nurses (n = 24) who were working in child health clinics or school health services in Finland. The data were analysed using inductive and deductive content analysis. RESULTS: The competency in mental health issues required by the work of public health nurses was formulated from the identified strengths and topics required in continuing education. In total, 18 competencies were identified as covering mental health promotion, as well as the alleviation and treatment of symptoms and disorders. Intuitive and interpersonal competency was identified as the main strength of public health nurses. The theoretical and evidence-based competency regarding mental health issues was identified as a main topic needed in continuing education. CONCLUSION: Public health nurses in child health clinics and school health services need competency in mental health issues for the promotion of mental health, the alleviation of symptoms and treatment of disorders. The results indicate that good interactional skills are not enough: the current competency of public health nurses in mental health issues is insufficient and does not meet the requirements of the work. The results were consistent with existing knowledge, but also provide a more comprehensive and precise insight into the current situation. In the future, the results should be verified with more studies. There is also a need for intervention studies aiming to improve competency in mental health issues.