# data[].attributes.body
The first artifact I wanted to discuss was the piece I created for the Art Gallery Project. This piece was meant to explore the duality of motherhood: the beauty and joy of bringing new life into the world alongside the often-hidden struggles new mothers may face. This duality is expressed visually through the contrasting halves of the drawing: one side is bright, symbolizing hope and life, while the other side is darker, symbolizing the weight of postpartum challenges, such as feelings of isolation, loss of self and the difficulty many mothers experience in adjusting to their new role. Through artistic expression, I sought to understand and share the personal and social contexts that shape postpartum experiences. The flowers represent societal expectations of joy in motherhood, while the darker side acknowledges that not all postpartum experiences fit neatly into this image. The challenges new mothers face are validated through this darker imagery, which highlights the importance of addressing unmet needs for support. Additionally, the relational inquiry concept of critical inquiry was integral in reflecting on the mother's experience with empathy, questioning assumptions that new motherhood is universally joyful. This reflective process encouraged me to consider how nurses and other healthcare providers might better support new mothers by acknowledging both their visible and hidden struggles.

# data[].attributes.body
Postpartum challenges can affect any postpartum mother, regardless of financial stability or the presence of a strong support system (Negron et al., 2013). These challenges must be addressed more openly to ensure new mothers feel supported and understood. By fostering awareness and reducing stigma, particularly around postpartum depression, we can promote better emotional and mental health for mothers as they care for the new life they’ve brought into the world. A quote from Adele highlights the varied and deeply personal experiences of postpartum depression, emphasizing the need for more resources, open discussions, and compassionate care for mothers.

# data[].attributes.body
This image by Karen Kleiman highlights an often overlooked but crucial aspect of the postpartum experience—self-esteem. While much focus is placed on physical recovery after childbirth, the emotional and psychological challenges, including the impact on a mother's self-esteem, are frequently under discussed.The postpartum period can be an emotionally difficult time for many new mothers, as they navigate the changes to their bodies, adjust to new responsibilities, and face societal pressures about how they should look or feel (Meireles et al., 2022). Focusing on postpartum mothers' unique challenges and mental health is critical for the well-being of not only the mother but also her partner, family, and child. Research suggests that up to 70% of women experience lower self-esteem after giving birth, which can lead to various social and psychological issues, including strained marital relationships, depression, disordered eating, diminished mother-infant bonding, and early cessation of breastfeeding. It’s important that we shift the focus to recognize and support mothers in fostering positive self-esteem, acknowledging their emotional health as a vital part of their overall recovery and adjustment to motherhood (Meireles et al., 2022).

# data[].attributes.body
Asadi, M., Noroozi, M., & Alavi, M. (2021). Exploring the experiences related to postpartum changes: perspectives of mothers and healthcare providers in Iran. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 21(7). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-020-03504-8

Bologna, C. (2017, November 30). These Comics Capture The Silent Struggle Of Postpartum Depression And Anxiety. HuffPost. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/comics-struggle-post-partum-depression_n_5a0db5b4e4b0c0b2f2f85fab

Jena, H. (2021, May 26). 25 Postpartum Depression Quotes From Celebrity Moms That May Provide Comfort and Strength. What to Expect. https://www.whattoexpect.com/family/celebrity-moms-and-dads/celebrity-postpartum-depression-quotes

Meireles, J. F. F., Neves, C. M., Amaral, A. C. S., Morgado, F. F. da R., & Ferreira, M. E. C. (2022). Body Appreciation, Depressive Symptoms, and Self-Esteem in Pregnant and Postpartum Brazilian Women. Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fgwh.2022.834040

Negron, R., Martin, A., Almog, M., Balbierz, A., & Howell, E. A. (2012). Social support during the postpartum period: Mothers’ views on needs, expectations, and mobilization of support. Maternal and Child Health Journal, 17(4), 616–623. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-012-1037-4

Ruggeri, A. (2022, October 16). Bounce-back culture: Why new mums are expected to “snap back.” BBC. https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20221017-bounce-back-culture-how-pressure-to-snapback-hurts-new-mothers

# data[].attributes.body
The first artifact I wanted to share for this topic is my certificate for completing the Trauma & Violence- Informed Care Foundations course. This certificate is significant because it demonstrates my commitment to adopting a trauma-informed lens in all my interactions with patients. Trauma-informed care is an essential approach in nursing, as it recognizes that many individuals have experienced trauma in their lives, which can profoundly influence their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Completing this course has equipped me with the foundational knowledge to identify and respond sensitively to the effects of trauma while fostering a sense of safety, trust, and empowerment for patients. This certification reflects my understanding of how trauma can manifest in behaviors, health outcomes, and relationships, and the importance of creating a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. By applying a trauma-informed perspective, I aim to build stronger therapeutic relationships, reduce the risk of retraumatization, and promote healing and resilience among my patients. This artifact also represents my commitment to continual learning and growth as a future nurse, ensuring I remain adaptable and responsive to the diverse needs of the individuals and communities I serve.

# data[].attributes.body
Secondly, I came across an insightful video from the Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Resource Center, narrated by Dr. Cruz, who shares her experiences and insights on caring for patients with trauma exposure, including abuse, neglect, and violence. This simple yet incredibly informative video serves as an excellent introduction to the fundamentals of trauma-informed care and its importance for healthcare providers. She recounts how, earlier in her practice, she observed a recurring pattern: some patients faced persistent health issues, appeared uneasy, and struggled to improve despite numerous visits. Over time, she recognized that many of these patients had experienced trauma or adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Dr. Cruz explains how widespread ACEs are and emphasizes their profound effects on brain development. Repeated trauma exposure can disrupt emotional regulation, contributing to conditions like anxiety, depression, and substance use. Additionally, individuals with trauma histories face an increased risk of chronic diseases, behavioral health challenges, and even suicide. Through trauma-informed care, Dr. Cruz learned to consider these experiences when addressing her patients' needs, allowing her to provide more meaningful and effective care. She concludes by underscoring that this approach transforms caregiving from merely treating symptoms to genuinely fostering healing. The video narrated by Dr. Cruz is deeply meaningful for nursing practice because it underscores the importance of addressing patients holistically, recognizing how trauma shapes their health and well-being. Trauma-informed care goes beyond treating symptoms; it acknowledges the emotional, psychological, and social factors influencing a patient’s experiences. For nurses, this approach is crucial in building trust, fostering therapeutic relationships, and promoting healing. Dr. Cruz’s insights highlight the connection between trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and long-term health outcomes, emphasizing the necessity for nurses to adopt a compassionate, non-judgmental perspective. This aligns with nursing values of empathy, respect, and patient-centered care, making the video an invaluable resource for guiding practice.

# data[].attributes.body
As a nursing student committed to providing compassionate, informed care, I plan to integrate the knowledge I’ve gained through my trauma-informed care certification and insights from Dr. Cruz’s video into my future practice. By completing the certification, I have demonstrated a dedication to understanding and addressing the complex needs of patients with sensitivity and empathy. The video further deepened my awareness of how trauma impacts emotional and physical health, encouraging me to approach care with a broader, more informed perspective. Through this knowledge, I aim to foster meaningful connections with patients, critically reflect on my role as a nurse, and adapt my practice to meet their unique realities.

# data[].attributes.body
References

Grossman, S., Cooper, Z., Buxton, H., Hendrickson, S., Lewis-O’Connor, A., Stevens, J., Wong, L.-Y., & Bonne, S. (2021). Trauma-informed care: Recognizing and Resisting re-traumatization in Health Care. Trauma Surgery & Acute Care Open, 6(1), 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1136/tsaco-2021-000815

Tello, M. (2018, October 16). Trauma-informed care: What it is, and why it’s important. Harvard Health Blog; Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/trauma-informed-care-what-it-is-and-why-its-important-2018101613562

Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Resource Center. (2021). What is Trauma-Informed Care? Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Resource Center; Center for Health Care Strategies. https://www.traumainformedcare.chcs.org/what-is-trauma-informed-care

# data[].attributes.headline
Episode 3: Reducing mental health stigma

# data[].attributes.subject
Episode 3: Reducing mental health stigma

# data[].attributes.body
There are three forms of stigma: public, systemic, and self (Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, 2024). Public stigma involves devaluation and discrimination by others, fueled by stereotypes about people experiencing mental illness. These stereotypes can affect job prospects, housing opportunities, and even the quality of healthcare individuals receive. Systemic stigma, on the other hand, occurs when these stereotypes are embedded in laws, policies, and institutions, reducing access to care and resources on a larger scale. Lastly, self-stigma refers to the internalization of these stereotypes, leading to low self-esteem, self-doubt, and hopelessness. Ways to combat stigma include talking openly about mental health, educating yourself and others, being mindful of language, encouraging equality between physical and mental health, normalizing treatment, showing compassion, and choosing empowerment over shame. Breaking the cycle of stigma is crucial for creating a supportive and equitable environment where individuals can seek help without fear or judgment.

This image is significant in addressing mental health stigma because it visually highlights harmful stereotypes and misconceptions that many people face. The statements shown represent public stigma, where judgment and misunderstanding diminish the seriousness of mental health struggles. Phrases like “therapy and medications are scams” or “you shouldn’t have kids” perpetuate a narrative that invalidates mental health issues, discouraging individuals from seeking help. By showcasing these common stigmas, the image calls attention to how societal attitudes can affect self-worth, access to care, and recovery. It serves as an important educational tool to challenge prejudices and promote open conversations about mental health.

# data[].attributes.body
On the same webpage, I found a simple yet impactful video that is highly relevant to the discussion of reducing mental health stigma. The video highlights the crucial need for public awareness and understanding of mental health challenges in order to build a more supportive society. It explains how stigma acts as a barrier for individuals seeking help, often leading to feelings of shame, isolation, and delays in treatment. The video calls for a shift in how we view and talk about mental health, encouraging individuals to challenge harmful stereotypes. This powerful message emphasizes that reducing stigma is not just about raising awareness, but also about creating an environment where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to seek help. It serves as a valuable resource for spreading awareness and inspiring action to combat stigma on both personal and societal levels.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Break the Stigma Around Children's Mental Health

# data[].attributes.body
By acknowledging that mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of their status or success, Kristen Bell, a known American actress, helps break down the walls of stigma that often isolate those who are struggling. Her words remind us that mental health issues are not reserved for a particular group of people; they can touch anyone, including those we admire or look up to. When influential figures like Bell speak openly about mental health, it helps normalize the conversation and reduces the shame that many people feel when dealing with mental illness. If more people—both public figures and everyday individuals—share their experiences, it creates a domino effect. It encourages others to speak out and seek help, knowing they are not alone. This openness creates an environment where mental health is discussed more freely, fostering empathy and support. As a result, it becomes easier for people to access resources, and societal attitudes toward mental health can shift toward compassion and understanding.

# data[].attributes.body
Understanding mental health stigma and the current challenges surrounding negative perceptions of mental illness will deeply inform my future nursing practice by shaping how I approach patient care, communication, and advocacy. As a nursing student, I’ve come to recognize that stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help or being honest about their struggles. By educating myself on the various forms of stigma—public, systemic, and self—I am better equipped to identify and address the barriers my patients may face. For instance, I know that public stigma can lead to discrimination, affecting not only a patient's self-esteem but also their ability to access care, housing, or employment. Systemic stigma can further complicate matters by creating policies that limit resources or access to care, particularly for vulnerable groups. Understanding these dynamics will help me advocate for more inclusive and accessible care options, as well as challenge policies that hinder progress in mental health care. Additionally, my knowledge of how self-stigma can affect a patient's mental well-being—by internalizing negative societal views—will guide me in providing compassionate, non-judgmental care. This understanding will encourage me to foster an environment where patients feel safe, valued, and empowered to seek the help they need. In my future practice, I aim to apply a trauma-informed, person-centered approach that recognizes the impact of stigma while promoting mental wellness. By actively working to reduce stigma in my interactions, educating others, and advocating for systemic changes, I hope to create a healthcare setting where patients feel supported in their mental health journey, knowing they can receive the care they deserve without fear of judgment.

# data[].attributes.body
Ahad, A., Gonzalez, M., & Junquera, P. (2023). Understanding and addressing mental health stigma across cultures for improving psychiatric care: A narrative review. Cureus, 15(5), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.39549

Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. (2024). Reducing Stigma. Www.tn.gov. https://www.tn.gov/behavioral-health/stigma.html

GoodTherapy staff. (2018, May 12). Stop Stigma: 12 Inspiring Quotes About Mental Health. GoodTherapy. https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/stop-stigma-12-inspiring-quotes-about-mental-health-0512187

World Health Organization. (2024, June 26). The overwhelming case for ending stigma and discrimination in mental health. World Health Organization . https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/26-06-2024-the-overwhelming-case-for-ending-stigma-and-discrimination-in-mental-health

# data[].attributes.headline
Episode 4: Substance use and harm reduction

# data[].attributes.subject
Episode 4: Substance use and harm reduction

# data[].attributes.body
This image can be applied to nursing practice, especially when caring for individuals dealing with substance use disorders. Harm reduction is an approach that focuses on minimizing the negative consequences of risky behaviors, rather than solely aiming for complete cessation (Recovery Research Institute, 2023). This concept is rooted in the belief that every person deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their circumstances. In nursing practice, it is vital to understand that patients who engage in substance use often face a variety of challenges, including social stigma, mental health issues, and complex environmental factors. By embracing the principles of harm reduction, nurses can create a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where patients feel safe to share their struggles. This approach helps build therapeutic rapport, fostering trust and openness between patients and healthcare providers. Nurses can offer practical solutions such as providing access to clean needles, supporting medication-assisted treatment, or referring patients to counseling and social services. These interventions not only reduce the immediate harms associated with substance use but also encourage long-term health and recovery. By prioritizing respect, dignity, and compassion, nurses can effectively support patients in their journey toward improved health outcomes without perpetuating feelings of shame or alienation.

# data[].attributes.body
I chose to include this video as an artifact because videos like this are powerful educational tools that play a crucial role in helping the general public understand harm reduction and reduce the stigma associated with it. By highlighting real-world examples, the video demonstrates how harm reduction strategies can benefit both individuals and communities, ultimately helping to prevent substance-related deaths. This approach not only educates viewers on the practical benefits of harm reduction but also fosters greater empathy and understanding, encouraging a shift away from judgment and towards more supportive and effective responses to substance use. By using such tools, we can promote safer environments and better outcomes for those affected by substance use.

# data[].attributes.body
I included this infographic as an artifact because it is extremely relevant to discussing the impact of stigma on individuals who misuse substances. This infograph emphasizes how labeling and stigmatizing behaviors hinder effective care and support. Stigma, as highlighted in the graphic, contributes to exclusion, rejection, and devaluation of individuals, worsening their health outcomes and increasing barriers to seeking care. This aligns with the principles of Relational Inquiry, which emphasize looking beyond a patient on the individual level and their presenting issue—such as substance use—and understanding the broader context of their experiences, including social, emotional, and environmental factors. By focusing on the whole person rather than just their substance use, nurses can build trust and foster therapeutic relationships, enabling patients to access the help they need without fear of judgment. Recognizing the devastating effects of enacted stigma, especially in healthcare, motivates me to advocate for systems and practices that prioritize patient well-being and empower individuals to seek help.

# data[].attributes.body
MH101 - Harm Reduction. (2006). The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. https://www.camhx.ca/Education/online_courses/MentalhHealth101Series/HarmReduction/story.html

Recovery Research Institute. (2023). Harm Reduction. Recovery Research Institute. https://www.recoveryanswers.org/resource/drug-and-alcohol-harm-reduction/

Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy. (2021). Support Not Stigma Nurses. Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy. https://wgdrugstrategy.ca/support-not-stigma-nurses/

# data[].attributes.body
Effective communication at discharge is crucial for improving health outcomes, as it is strongly associated with fewer hospital re admissions, higher treatment adherence, and increased patient satisfaction (Becker et al., 2021). Discharge is a complex, multidisciplinary process where patients are provided with essential medical information and follow-up instructions. During this transition, healthcare practitioners must convey critical information about diagnoses and treatment plans while addressing patients’ unique conditions, perceptions, and needs. However, many patients struggle to understand or retain this information, leading to confusion, misinterpretation, and poor adherence to treatment regimens. Factors such as low health literacy, anxiety, cognitive impairments, or language barriers further exacerbate these challenges. Studies have shown that a significant number of discharged patients fail to recall their diagnoses or instructions, which is linked to higher risks of readmission and mortality.Communication interventions play a pivotal role in addressing these gaps, improving adherence to treatment regimens, and ultimately influencing outcomes such as morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. For patients with chronic conditions, adherence is especially critical, as nearly 40% of readmissions in these patients stem from poor adherence. Research highlights that educational interventions are particularly effective in improving adherence among older patients and those in medical wards, as understanding their disease and treatment purpose fosters better compliance. However, such efforts are often overlooked despite their modifiable nature. As future nurses, we have the unique opportunity to bridge these gaps by prioritizing effective communication during discharge. This includes tailoring instructions to patients’ individual needs, simplifying complex medical information, and ensuring they have the necessary resources for a safe transition home. By addressing barriers to adherence and fostering understanding, we can empower patients to take control of their health and reduce the likelihood of adverse outcomes.

# data[].attributes.body
This image from Nursing CE Central highlights what effective patient discharge should look like, emphasizing the importance of tailoring discharge teachings to each patient’s unique learning style (Robinson, 2024). Nurses play a vital role in ensuring patients are adequately prepared for a smooth transition home, which involves assessing readiness to learn, addressing barriers, and providing comprehensive education. Effective discharge teaching goes beyond simply reading instructions, it requires assessment, preparation, and communication. By integrating the patient’s learning preferences and involving their caregivers, nurses can enhance understanding and adherence to treatment regimens. The V.A.R.K. model offers a helpful framework to identify learning styles: visual learners benefit from charts and diagrams; auditory learners prefer verbal explanations or educational audio materials; reading/writing learners grasp information best through written instructions; and kinesthetic learners learn effectively through hands-on demonstrations. Additionally, nurses should assess the patient’s readiness to learn by ensuring comfort, managing pain, and accommodating sensory or cognitive needs. A conducive environment, free from distractions, further supports effective learning. Collaboration with discharge planners is also essential to address home care needs, medical equipment, or medication instructions. By starting discharge planning early in the shift, involving family members, and addressing all patient conditions, not just the primary diagnosis, nurses can ensure that patients leave the hospital better equipped for recovery, ultimately improving health outcomes and reducing re admissions (Robinson, 2024).

# data[].attributes.body
Becker, C., Zumbrunn, S., Beck, K., Vincent, A., Loretz, N., Müller, J., Amacher, S. A., Schaefert, R., & Hunziker, S. (2021). Interventions to Improve Communication at Hospital Discharge and Rates of Readmission. JAMA Network Open, 4(8). https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.19346

Chin, K. L., Alvin. (2020, March 13). Infographic - Giving Safe and Complete Discharge Instructions in the Emergency Department. CanadiEM. https://canadiem.org/safe-and-complete-discharge-instructions-infographic/

Mackles, A. (2022). Discharge Instructions for Patients: Best Practices. The Sullivan Group. https://blog.thesullivangroup.com/discharge-instructions-for-patients-best-practices

Peart, K. N. (2015, January 15). When used effectively, discharge summaries reduce hospital readmissions. YaleNews. https://news.yale.edu/2015/01/15/when-used-effectively-discharge-summaries-reduce-hospital-readmissions

Robinson, C. (2024, February 20). 5 Steps to Teaching Effective Hospital Discharge. Nursing CE Central. https://nursingcecentral.com/hospital-discharge/