#1004 Depression and Anxiety Management (15 Credits/Hours)

(15 Credits/Hours)

Launch Date: August 5, 2025
Expires: August 31, 2027

Course Overview

 This comprehensive course provides healthcare professionals with essential knowledge and clinical skills for the assessment, diagnosis, and management of depression and anxiety disorders. Building on evidence-based practices and current research, participants will develop competency in recognizing symptoms, implementing appropriate interventions, and providing patient-centered care for individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders. The course integrates neurobiological foundations with practical clinical applications, emphasizing a holistic approach to mental health care.

Table of Content

1.  Understanding Depression and Anxiety: Symptoms and Diagnosis
2. The Science Behind Depression and Anxiety: Brain Chemistry and Neurobiology
3. Identifying Personal Triggers and Warning Signs
4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Techniques and Strategies
5. Mindfulness and Meditation Practices for Mental Health
6. Breathing Exercises and Relaxation Techniques
7. The Role of Physical Exercise in Managing Depression and Anxiety
8. Nutrition and Diet: Foods That Support Mental Wellness
9. Sleep Hygiene and Its Impact on Mood Disorders
10. Building and Maintaining Supportive Relationships
11. Medication Options: Antidepressants and Anti-Anxiety Medications

Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Identify the pathophysiology, neurobiological mechanisms, and risk factors associated with depression and anxiety disorders
• Differentiate between various types of depressive and anxiety disorders using current diagnostic criteria
• Analyze the social, cultural, and environmental factors that contribute to mental health disparities
• Evaluate the impact of comorbid medical conditions on depression and anxiety presentation and treatment
• Demonstrate proficiency in conducting comprehensive mental health assessments using validated screening tools
• Perform accurate risk assessments for suicide, self-harm, and violence in patients with depression and anxiety
• Interpret assessment findings to identify priority nursing diagnoses and care needs
• Document mental health assessments using standardized terminology and legal requirements
• Apply therapeutic communication techniques to establish rapport and trust with patients experiencing depression and anxiety
• Demonstrate active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental communication approaches
• Utilize motivational interviewing techniques to enhance patient engagement and treatment adherence
• Adapt communication strategies for patients with varying levels of insight and cognitive functioning
• Identify classifications, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic effects of psychotropic medications for depression and anxiety
• Monitor patients for medication side effects, adverse reactions, and drug interactions
• Educate patients about medication adherence, expected outcomes, and potential risks
• Collaborate with prescribers to optimize medication regimens based on patient response and tolerance
• Develop individualized education plans addressing disease process, treatment options, and self-management strategies
• Teach patients and families coping skills, stress management techniques, and relapse prevention strategies
• Provide psychoeducation about mental health stigma reduction and recovery-oriented approaches
• Evaluate patient and family understanding of educational content and modify teaching approaches accordingly
• Apply age-appropriate assessment and intervention strategies for pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations
• Address unique mental health needs of pregnant and postpartum women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and culturally diverse populations
• Modify nursing approaches for patients with co-occurring substance use disorders or developmental disabilities
• Implement trauma-informed care principles for patients with history of abuse or trauma
• Assess immediate safety risks and implement appropriate interventions for patients in crisis
• Execute suicide prevention protocols and safety planning with high-risk patients
• De-escalate agitated or aggressive behaviors using verbal and environmental interventions
• Coordinate emergency mental health services and involuntary commitment procedures when indicated
• Integrate evidence-based complementary therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, and relaxation techniques into patient care
• Assess patients’ spiritual and cultural needs related to mental health treatment
• Promote lifestyle modifications including nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene for mental wellness
• Evaluate the effectiveness of holistic interventions on patient outcomes and quality of life
• Collaborate effectively with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other healthcare team members
• Coordinate transitions of care between inpatient, outpatient, and community mental health settings
• Facilitate referrals to appropriate mental health resources and community support services
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning and discharge planning processes
• Utilize electronic health records and clinical decision support systems for mental health documentation
• Evaluate digital mental health tools, apps, and telehealth platforms for patient care applications
• Implement remote monitoring technologies for medication adherence and symptom tracking
• Assess the benefits and limitations of technology-based interventions for depression and anxiety management
• Recognize signs of burnout, compassion fatigue, and secondary trauma in mental health nursing practice
• Implement self-care strategies and seek appropriate professional support when needed
• Apply ethical principles and legal considerations specific to mental health nursing practice
• Advocate for patients’ rights, dignity, and access to quality mental health care
• Analyze current research and best practice guidelines for depression and anxiety management
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance mental health care delivery
• Evaluate patient outcomes using standardized measures and quality indicators
• Integrate evidence-based practices into daily nursing care and advocate for practice changes