Written by Christine Sides, M.A.,  LPC, Behavioral Health Specialist

What does someone do when they have diabetes and they are feeling a little off? They test their blood sugar.

Did you also know that you can test your mental health status by taking a simple at home test? Advances over the years have made simple mental health screenings available to people for free over the internet. If you have been feeling off, and wondering if your just sad or depressed, an online screening tool may be for you.

Primary care doctors, psychologists and therapists all use these tools to help determine your level of depression and/ or anxiety. Taking an at home screening, can help you to determine if you need to reach out for help. It can also help a professional direct you to the proper services.

So, what are the screening tools. They are a set of standard questions that can help a health care provider check for signs of a mental health disorder.  The tests are scientifically validated, which means researchers have proven that they present an accurate picture of your mental status. These tests also help you keep track of your symptoms over time. The same way you might keep track of your blood pressure of blood sugar levels.

Mental Health America has links to several different online, free, screening tools. If you are worried about how you feel, this is a great starting point. Taking care of your mental health begins by taking a first step.

At Home Screening