Comprehensive approach to mental health from nursing and evidence-based care

Introduction: The review addressed the importance of mental health knowledge among healthcare personnel, especially nurses, as a basis for implementing effective prevention, promotion, and treatment strategies. It was suggested that, despite the wide range of information available, healthcare professionals demonstrated a lack of knowledge in the application of psychosocial interventions, which limited their use in a comprehensive approach to patients and their environment. Development: During the analysis, various interventions framed in standardised NIC language were identified, including physiological and psychosocial actions focused on comprehensive care. Nursing, as a discipline, applied both conventional techniques and holistic strategies—relaxation, massage, aromatherapy, acupuncture, and music therapy—to reduce stress, improve quality of life, and support mental health. These interventions were based on scientific evidence and were implemented depending on the level of professional training. In addition, the concept of psychosocial intervention was explored, understood as a means of modifying harmful environments and behaviours. The types of mental disorder prevention (universal, selective and indicated) were also analysed, highlighting the need for early intervention. The Colombian legal context, through Law 1616 of 2013, supported the right to comprehensive mental health care. Finally, Phil Barker's recovery model offered a humanistic approach, centred on the patient's experience. Conclusion: It was concluded that strengthening the knowledge and application of psychosocial interventions by health personnel, especially nurses, was essential for humanised, scientific and culturally sensitive care that guaranteed the quality of life of the individual, their family and the community.