Mental Health Resources

The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) provides mental health and substance use evidence-based training, customized technical assistance, and resources to certified Medicare and Medicaid nursing facilities that care for residents with a variety of behavioral health conditions at absolutely no cost.

June is observed as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness month, a time dedicated to promoting understanding and compassion for those affected by PTSD. PTSD often goes unrecognized or unreported, and when left unaddressed, it can cause residents to react to everyday interactions in ways that may be misunderstood or misinterpreted. Resources to help:

• Share educational resources. Post and distribute resources on PTSD symptoms to residents, staff and family members: Applying the 4 Rs to a Trauma-Informed Approach.
• Implement screening protocols. Develop policies and procedures to screen for PTSD in residents. Clinical staff can use the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) as an evidence-based tool for assessment.
• Engage in supportive conversations. Talk with residents about available treatment options and normalize mental health support.
• Refer for specialized care. Ensure residents who screen positive for PTSD are referred for further assessment and treatment by behavioral health professionals. To help residents find services, go to FindTreatment.gov.