Screening for psychiatric problems in the orofacial trauma setting

Abstract

After facial trauma, a subset of patients develops mental health problems, particularly posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depression. Early identification of patients who may be at risk for these disorders can facilitate referral for further psychiatric evaluation and possible treatment. Brief, easy-to-use screening tools are available to assist in the process of recognizing these individuals. This article provides a review of some of the most commonly used short screeners for PTSD and major depression. Incorporating information gleaned from these self-administered screeners into the routine evaluation of patients with facial trauma will help to address the mental health needs that are associated with orofacial injury.