Importance of Mental Health Screening

Mental health screenings are a key part of overall wellness.  The numbers of those individuals affected by mental health conditions is astounding.  Approximately 50% of chronic, lifetime mental health conditions begin by the age of 14.75% of these conditions begin by age 24. We all know someone that these types of conditions affect.  So, the question is, what do we do? 

Here are some tips to help get you started:  

It is important to remember, just because you get a screening does not mean you will be diagnosed with anything.  Ultimately your overall wellbeing and health is the important thing, so it is imperative to listen with an open mind and follow the expert’s recommendations and ask questions.     

Remember the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free, confidential support with a skilled, trained counselor, 24/7. Chat online with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, call 1-800-273-8255 or text the Crisis Text Line at 988. 

For more information please check out resources such as your local branch of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) (https://nami.org) and Pennsylvania’s Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) (https://www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Mental-Health-In-PA/Pages/OMHSAS-Information.aspx).   

‍National Alliance on Mental Illness. Mental Health By the Numbers. Retrieved September 26,2023 from  Mental Health By the Numbers

‍Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. SAMHSA’s National Helpline. Retrieved September 26, 2023 from SAMHSA’s National Helpline | SAMHSA’s National Helpline

• If you feel out of sorts or “off” consult yourprimary care physician or pediatrician.
• Rule out any underlying medical conditions.
• If you support someone that is school aged, discuss your observations with the school counselor.
• Contact the insurance carrier to find out whatproviders are in network in your area.
• Make notes of how you are feeling to bring with you to the appointment to share with the provider.  If you are supporting someone, make notes of their behavior.