Behavioral Health
EMS providers are often called to respond to patients experiencing behavioral health emergencies and mental health concerns. In the Behavioral Health topic, find expert analysis into managing acutely agitated patients, responding to excited delirium patients, legal concerns and grant funding for mental health responses.
How my view on medication has changed and why I think everyone should have access to proper treatment
The ability to think and act quickly when encountering a patient in an excited delirium situation could spell the difference between successful treatment and a lost life
With the increased use of ketamine by the military medics and emergency departments is it time for more widespread use of ketamine by civilian EMS?
Maine’s MD3 program deploys doctors alongside EMS crews to overdose and emergency calls, expanding field treatment, education and follow-up care across Kennebec County
From chronic burnout and staffing gaps to a lack of meaningful leadership engagement, personnel are sounding the alarm — and offering a roadmap for change
A new initiative embeds social workers with first responders during 911 calls for mental health and substance use crises in Cuyahoga County
While EMS sees fewer opioid-related emergencies, the report highlights growing concern over mental health incidents in children and repeat 911 usage
Millions in funding are now available to support prevention, treatment and recovery programs
There are several things you can do to protect both your patient and yourself
Spokane’s CARES team added three new social workers to expand support for people facing addiction, homelessness and mental health crises, thanks to $500K in opioid settlement funds
EMS clinicians should rely on their assessment and facts when assessing people with a suspected factitious disorder
Watch and discover expert nutrition tips tailored for first responders for peak performance, faster recovery and sustained energy on the job
Naperville’s CART started full-time service in January, responding to mental health crises and community paramedicine calls
Monitoring AVPU and other vital signs will help determine if the patient is improving, worsening or responding to treatment
How personal connections can strengthen on- and off-duty resilience
Increases in drug overdoses and behavioral health calls have led some Twin Cities fire and EMS chiefs to use social workers and Community Risk Reduction to address demands
Managing high-risk/difficult refusals with the FEARS mnemonic
A new University of Washington program addresses a critical gap as first responders remain the primary response to mental health calls in many areas, especially rural communities
Recruitment, the opioid epidemic, climate change and mental health challenges are just as significant for paramedics now as they were in the heat of the campaign
A partnership between State Radio and 988 will allow dispatchers to connect a 911 caller with a trained counselor
Allegheny County’s Alternative Response Unit pilot program is designed to assist with behavioral and mental health crisis calls

EMS Trend Survey seeks input for What Paramedics Want in 2025 report
The state-of-the industry survey focuses on wellness, career development and satisfaction in EMS
Stamford Health’s first behavioral health clinic will address crisis and substance abuse issues for Stamford and Darien residents
The Joilet Fire Department will receive the 2025 Excellence in Fire Service-Based EMS Award from CFSI and Masimo for its innovations in EMS
The Huron Township Public Safety Department’s registry is a source of critical information for first responders when assisting seniors and others in emergency situations
An explainer and action plan based on the Consensus Statement of NAEMSP, IAFF and IACP
Access practical strategies for fostering collaboration and improving outcomes during acute behavioral emergencies
Specialized Assistance For Everyone will run for five years in a pilot program with the Novato Police Department
Policy shifts and sustainable funding are needed to help manage the demand of mental health calls
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