Welcome to the Office of Refugee Services Health & Wellness Master Resource Hub
These health resources are designed to support your work and strengthen your ability to serve refugees and newcomers across North Dakota. They promote effective service delivery and the overall well-being of the individuals and families you assist.
If you would like to contribute additional health resources to this hub, please contact us at refugeeservices@nd.gov.
Trauma is known to affect behaviors in ourselves, our clients, and colleagues. To learn more about the effects of trauma in refugee populations and what you and your organization can do to be trauma-informed, please reference the provided resources:
Self-care and professional boundaries
These videos provide an overview of key services and strategies that assist refugees in building a new life. Topics include the resettlement process, employment support, and community integration approaches. Each video offers practical insights and resources to help individuals and organizations foster successful refugee integration.
Cultural perspectives and maintaining resilience
Empathic communication: Supporting communities who have experienced forced displacement
These videos guide language access best practices and strategies for ensuring effective communication with individuals who have limited English proficiency. They cover essential tools and approaches to help organizations meet language access requirements and deliver accessible services.
This training recording provides an overview of cultural and contextual factors related to Ukraine and introduces the core principles of Psychological First Aid. Viewers will gain increased awareness and foundational knowledge to support trauma-informed responses.
Psychological first aid to support clients affected by a crisis
Please review the following videos for guidance and resources on working effectively with interpreters.
The following resources are designed to help providers identify and treat secondary traumatic stress, which is something that can commonly occur when serving refugee populations.
"I was already burned out, and now this..."
Balance the demanding needs of case management
Creating balance in case management
Self-care and a healthy workplace in the settlement and integration sector
In this mini-podcast series, a variety of important topics for providers relevant to working with refugee and immigrant caregivers are discussed to enhance the ability to effectively engage, serve, and support refugee and immigrant caregivers.
Foundational tenets of culturally responsive care
How trauma can impact parenting
How to adapt parenting interventions to be culturally responsive
This video explains key aspects of refugee support, including integration strategies and available resources.
De-escalation in practice: Strategies for supporting newcomers experiencing crises
Trauma is known to affect our own behaviors, as well as those of our clients and colleagues. To learn more about the effects of trauma in refugee populations and what you and your organization can do to be trauma-informed, please reference the resources below.
A trauma-informed understanding of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS)
Building a trauma-informed workforce
What can help refugees process traumatic grief?
5 key elements to trauma-informed care
Trauma-informed care in behavioral health services
Trauma-informed care: A primer for refugee service providers
Many children now enter the classroom having experienced a traumatic event. Learning how to support students who have experienced trauma is essential. The following resources are guidelines on how to create a trauma-informed school and equip teachers to create trauma-informed classrooms, ready to support refugee students.
Helping children cope after a traumatic event
Going back to school after a tragedy
Supporting young people in the wake of violence and trauma
Addressing the epidemic of trauma in schools
Integrating a trauma-informed approach within a PBIS framework
Trauma-informed care for educators
Creating, supporting, and sustaining trauma-informed schools
Supporting trauma-informed schools to keep students in the classroom
Trauma-informed schools for children in K-12: A system framework
Adverse childhood experiences in child refugee and asylum-seeking populations
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood. By age sixteen, two-thirds of children in the United States have experienced a potentially traumatic event. The following resources address ACEs and how to support those who have experienced them.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) preventing early trauma to improve adult health
Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Leveraging the best available evidence
The research shows that refugees are at a higher risk for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Please use the following resources to familiarize yourself with the unique mental health needs of refugee children and how to provide ongoing support.
What works to improve the mental health of refugee children and adults?
18 months later: A mental health and psychosocial needs assessment across Ukraine
National resource center for refugees, immigrants, and migrants (NRC-RIM)
Supporting the mental health of refugee students
Understanding refugee trauma: For mental health professionals
Strengthening mental health support services for refugee children resettled in the US
HIAS mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) curriculum
HIAS MHPSS training and resource annex
The social determinants of refugee mental health in the post-migration context: A critical review
A trauma-informed understanding of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS)
The following resources are specific to Afghan arrivals. Please reference these population-specific resources to support this community.
Culturally & linguistically appropriate service for Afghans
Afghan men supporting women's wellness
Afghan refugees, grappling with grief and trauma, face barriers to mental health care
Blood lead levels among Afghan children in the United States, 2014-2016
Psychological first aid (PFA) to support clients affected by the crisis in Afghanistan
Culturally informed care is a way of providing services to individuals that takes into account their native culture, beliefs, and language. Please reference the following resources to ensure your organization recognizes and values diversity.
Health crisis management for service providers
Cross-cultural interactions and shared decision-making
Building a culturally informed network of refugee mental healthcare providers
Cultural competence self-assessment checklist
Culturally responsive strategies to support young children with challenging behavior
Culturally appropriate positive guidance with young children
For guidance on working with interpreters, please reference the resources below.
Introduction to working with interpreters
Overcoming challenges in interpretation
Interpreter best practices: Healthcare professionals' guide
The CDC serves as the leading source for health-related information. Please review the references below for current guidance.
ACIP vaccine recommendations and schedules
Health equity guiding principles
The following resources are designed to help providers identify and treat secondary traumatic stress, a condition that commonly occurs when serving refugee populations.
What is secondary traumatic stress?
What works to reduce burnout and vicarious trauma among refugee service providers?
Secondary trauma and child welfare staff
Secondary traumatic stress: A fact sheet for child-serving professionals
A fact sheet for organizations employing community violence workers
Secondary traumatic stress core competencies
Secondary traumatic stress core competencies
Secondary traumatic stress self-rating tool
Using secondary traumatic stress core competencies in trauma-informed supervision
The link below provides access to a book designed for case managers and other service providers to use with their refugee clients.
Traumatic events can affect individuals differently depending on their age and stage of development. Understanding these age-related reactions is essential for providing appropriate support and care. The fact sheets below outline common responses to trauma in children, adolescents, and adults, and offer guidance for caregivers and service providers to help promote recovery and resilience.
Young children are especially vulnerable to the emotional impact of a crisis. Their reactions may vary widely, and they often rely on caregivers for comfort and stability. This fact sheet provides practical strategies to help children feel safe, express their emotions, and be part of the healing process. It is designed for parents, caregivers, and service providers supporting children in the aftermath of a traumatic event.
Adjusting to life in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. Refugees and newcomers often face stress related to cultural differences, language barriers, and rebuilding their lives. The fact sheets below offer practical tips and emotional support strategies to help individuals cope with these changes, maintain well-being, and find a sense of belonging in their new community.
Stress is a common experience, especially during times of change or uncertainty. Learning healthy ways to manage stress can improve overall well-being and resilience. The flyers linked below offer practical tips and strategies for adults to cope with stress effectively, maintain balance, and support mental health in everyday life.
Children and teens often experience stress during times of change, uncertainty, or adjustment. Helping them develop healthy coping strategies is essential for their emotional well-being and resilience. The flyers linked below provide practical tips and guidance for supporting children and teens in managing stress effectively, building confidence, and maintaining mental health.
Respiratory illnesses such as colds, the flu, and COVID-19 can affect people of all ages and spread easily within communities. Understanding these illnesses and how to prevent them is essential for staying healthy. The fact sheets linked below explain common symptoms, ways to protect yourself and others, and provide important information about the vaccine that helps reduce the risk of severe illness.
Adjusting to life in a new country can be challenging for families and those who support them. This guide was created for parents and teens who are new to the U.S, as well as for service providers working with newcomer families. The topics are organized into sections with separate information tailored for parents and teens, making it easier to find relevant guidance and resources. The links below provide access to different parts of this guide.
In times of crisis or emergency, knowing where to turn for help is critical. The flyers linked below provide essential information about three key resources.
- 988 - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for mental health emergencies
- 911 - Emergency response for immediate life-threatening situations
- 211 - Community resource support for housing, food, and other assistance
These flyers explain when and how to use each service, ensuring individuals and families can access the right help when they need it most.
Mental health crises can happen at any time, and immediate support is essential. The flyers linked below provide information about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, a free and confidential service available 24/7 for anyone experiencing emotional distress or thoughts of self-harm. These resources explain how 988 works, who can use it, and what to expect when calling or texting for help.
The first trimester of pregnancy is a critical time for both mother and baby. Understanding what to expect and how to care for yourself during these early weeks can help promote a healthy pregnancy. The fact sheets linked below provide essential information on nutrition, prenatal care, common symptoms, and tips for maintaining physical and emotional well-being during the first trimester.
The second trimester is often considered the most comfortable stage of pregnancy, but it still brings important changes and health considerations. Staying informed during this period helps ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. The fact sheets linked below provide guidance on nutrition, prenatal checkups, physical changes, and tips for maintaining emotional and physical health throughout the second trimester.
These videos provide an overview of mental health and why it matters. You'll learn how to recognize signs of stress, understand its impact, and explore practical ways to cope. We also highlight culturally meaningful approaches to maintaining mental well-being and explain when and how to seek help for yourself or others.
These videos explore ways to express ourselves and communicate our thoughts and emotions effectively. You'll learn practical strategies for sharing feelings, listening actively, and building healthy relationships. We also highlight cultural perspectives on communication and how they shape the way we connect with others.
These videos explain what stress is, its common causes, and the symptoms to watch for. You'll learn practical coping strategies to manage stress and improve overall well-being. We also share tips for building resilience and maintaining balance in everyday life.
These videos explain how to build healthy relationships and why they matter. You'll learn practical ways to strengthen trust, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. We also highlight the benefits of healthy relationships for emotional well-being, resilience, and overall quality of life.
These videos explain mental health awareness and why understanding mental health is essential for overall well-being. We discuss the importance of recognizing mental health challenges, reducing stigma, and promoting healthy coping strategies. You'll learn practical ways to support your own mental health, identify signs of stress or anxiety, and discover resources for help and growth.
These videos explain how big life changes and uncertainty can affect children in different ways, and how parents can support them through these transitions. Understanding these impacts is essential for keeping kids happy, healthy, and safe, and the videos share practical strategies to help children cope and thrive during times of change.
These videos introduce social media for parents, explaining how different platforms work and what makes them popular. They also cover the apps and websites that children commonly use today, helping parents better understand the digital spaces their kids interact with.
These videos introduce social media for parents, explaining how different platforms work and what features they offer. They also cover the apps and websites that children commonly use today, helping parents stay informed about the digital spaces their kids engage with.
These video guides patients through what to expect during an emergency (ER) visit, including their rights, common reasons for visiting the ER, and what happens after discharge. They also explain the importance of following discharge instructions, picking up prescriptions, scheduling follow-up care with your primary provider, and understanding billing after your ER visit.
These videos provide cultural background and practical guidance for working with Afghan, Ukrainian, and Congolese newcomers. They explain key traditions, values, and experiences that shape each community, helping service providers and community members build a deeper understanding and offer more effective support.
These videos explain what lead poisoning is, how lead harms the body, and practical steps to prevent exposure. They provide essential information to help you protect yourself and your family from the dangers of lead in everyday environments.
These videos explain when and why someone should visit a pharmacy, primary care doctor, urgent care, or hospital. They outline the key differences between these options, such as cost, type of care, and insurance coverage, so you can make informed decisions about where to go for your health needs.
These videos explain what high blood pressure is and how to prevent or manage it. They share practical tips for controlling blood pressure, including eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding foods that can make the condition worse.
These videos explain why it's important to attend medical appointments on time and how to prepare for them. They also highlight ways to connect with community health care workers for support in managing and keeping track of your appointments.