Mental Health Basics
This mental health condition often appears as withdrawal, sadness, or lack of interest.
What is depression
When a resident yells or refuses care, they are often expressing this
What is an unmet emotional or physical need
This common environmental factor can trigger anxiety
What is loud noise
The very first thing staff should do when a resident becomes agitated is
What is stay calm
True or False- Supporting mental health is only the job of social services
What is False- It's everyone's responsibility.
Anxiety may look like restlessness, worry, or this physical symptom
What is increased heart rate or rapid breathing
People with cognitive impairment often do better with this type of instruction
What are 1-step directions
Pacing, clenched fists, and repeating questions may be early signs of this
What is escalation
Keeping routines and familiar items nearby helps reduce what
What is confusion or anxiety
After an incident, staff should complete this to track triggers and responses
What is DOCUMENTATION
This term means a past experience is causing a powerful emotional reaction now
What is a trauma trigger
Instead of correcting a resident's incorrect belief, staff should use this supportive approach.
What is validation
The first thing to do before redirecting a resident's behavior
What is validate their feelings example: "I understand you are upset" or "I hear you". Words such as "Calm Down" can be triggering
Offering "now or later" is an example of giving this
What are choices. Offering resident's choices is a resident right and can help prevent escalation
Name one situation that should be reported immediately.
What is suicidal talk, aggression, sudden mood changes, or withdrawal
Residents with PTSD may react strongly to loud noises because of this
Sundowning usually occurs during this time of day
What is late afternoon/evening
Bathing or toileting can be triggering because they reduce this for the residents
Redirecting a resident to music, a snack, or a walk is using this intervention
What is redirection. Where can you look for redirection/calming tips for each resident?
Why is observation important?
what is to identify triggers and patterns of distress early
A resident's "behavior" is usually a form of this
True or False- The environment affects resident behavior
What is true
Why is tone of voice important?
What is can calm or upset the resident depending on how it's used
For residents who shut down the best tool is this
What is quiet presence or silent support
Behind every behavior is a __________
What is a feeling or an unmet need