Pilot Study of a Behavioral Program for Resident Depression in Skilled Nursing Facilities

Building Resilience in Skilled Nursing Care: Open Pilot for a Behavioral Health Intervention

The goal of this clinical trial is to test a behavioral health program (Interventions for Stressful Transitions in Later Life, InSTILL, for Individuals) for skilled nursing facility residents. The main questions it aims to answer is whether the program is program is feasible, satisfactory, and helpful. Participants will join 6 bi-weekly sessions of the InSTILL program. Participants will complete assessments at three timepoints (all) and a brief-exit interview.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Psychological distress, as indicated by a score Patient Health Questionnaire- 2 ≥ 2 OR Patient Health Questionnaire-9 ≥ 5
• 5+ chronic conditions based on Elixhauser Comorbidity Index
• Aged ≥ 18 years
• Able and willing to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Intended length of SNF stay < 7 days
• More than mild cognitive impairment, as indicted by Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS) <13
• Participant's roommate is already enrolled in study/intervention
• High risk of suicide/active documented SI per the PHQ-9, item 9 or otherwise
• Participation in newly initiated psychotherapy