What is NSSI?

• Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a behavior in which an individual inflicts physical harm on themself to relieve emotional distress.
• NSSI can take many forms including cutting, picking, burning, bruising, puncturing, embedding, scratching/hitting oneself, etc.
• Approximately 4% of the U.S. population uses NSSI as a way of coping. NSSI is most common among adolescents and young adults, and this behavior often begins between ages 12-14.
• Individuals who self-injure are often secretive about their behaviors and may hide their wounds.

Tips for supporting a patient who self-harms

• Take the time to listen and show empathy.
• Remain non-judgmental.
• Avoid using stigmatizing language such as referring to self-harming behavior as “attention-seeking."
• Provide resources and educational materials related to self-harm.
• Help the patient to identify alternative and healthy coping strategies and encourage these to be used when experiencing urges to self-harm.
• Suggest a safety plan: what they might do to keep themselves safe, what their triggers are, and who they can call, etc., instead of self-harming.
• Continually monitor and assess the severity of a patient’s self-harm and their risk for suicide.

Source: Mentalhealthfirstaid.org

Behavioral health case management program highlight   B

“How do I connect a patient to behavioral health services?" That is a very common question these days. The behavioral health system can be confusing and overwhelming for your patients to navigate. As BCBSRI continues to expand our continuum of behavioral health services, we realize that providers may have questions regarding the types of services available for their patients.

The BCBSRI behavioral health case management program is staffed by experienced mental health and substance use professionals that can help members find the care they need, provide education and support, provide assistance when transitioning from acute levels of care, close gaps related to social determinants of health, and coordinate with healthcare professionals. There are several ways to learn more about behavioral health benefits and services:

• The Provider Call Center [(401) 274-4848 or 1-800-230-9050] can answer questions regarding a member’s benefits, including member liability for services. They can also assist if you are simply looking for a participating behavioral health provider, which you can also do on our website, BCBSRI.com.
• The BCBSRI BH Clinical Referral Line is answered by clinical behavioral health staff. The clinical referral line can help you identify a behavioral health provider, as well as provide support and guidance. This line should not be used if there is concern of imminent danger but it can be a first point of contact in non-emergency situations. The clinician, who may be a registered nurse, independently licensed social worker, or a mental health counselor, will ask questions to get a better understanding of your patient’s needs. The clinician will provide you with information about services that are available and will offer the names and contact information for providers who offer these services. You can contact the Clinical Referral Line at 1-800-274-2958. You may also share this number with your patients if they prefer to contact BCBSRI themselves.

• You may also use our automated referral form at BCBSRI.com by following these easy steps:

1. Log on to the provider portal of BCBSRI.com.

2. Click on Tools and Resources.

3. Click on Forms.

4. Click on Case Management Request.

5. Complete the required fields and click Go!

For additional information, please email  Monica Ross.