THE ROLE OF NURSING IN PREVENTING ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN ADOLESCENTS WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract

Adolescence is a period marked by intense biopsychosocial changes and is considered a phase of greater vulnerability to the development of mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression, which represent significant public health issues. In this context, primary health care stands out as a strategic setting for mental health promotion, highlighting the role of nursing. This study aimed to analyze the role of nursing in preventing anxiety and depression among adolescents in the context of primary health care. This is a qualitative study, characterized as a narrative literature review, conducted through searches in the SciELO, LILACS, BVS, and PubMed databases, considering studies published between 2020 and 2026. Descriptors related to the theme were used, combined with Boolean operators. The results showed that nursing plays a fundamental role in the early identification of risk factors through qualified listening, nursing consultations, and continuous follow-up. Strategies such as educational actions, group activities, school-based interventions, and family involvement were also highlighted, contributing to the strengthening of socio-emotional skills and the promotion of psychological well-being. The importance of interdisciplinary work and articulation with the psychosocial care network was also observed. It is concluded that nursing plays an essential role in preventing anxiety and depression among adolescents, promoting comprehensive, humanized, and patient-centered care.