October is Depression & Mental Health Screening Month
Depression screenings are an important element of the CFC’s integrated healthcare approach. Each new patient completes a PHQ-9 form with their initial paperwork; this questionnaire is used as a depression screening tool. The results, scored 0-27, are evaluated by a clinician to determine if the patient should be referred to a behavioral health practitioner for further assessment. Read more from Mental Health America:
Why Screen For Depression?
Clinical depression is a serious medical illness.
Clinical depression can lead to suicide.
Sometimes people with depression mistakenly believe that the symptoms of depression are a "normal part of life."
Clinical depression affects men and women of all ages, races and socioeconomic groups.
Only about a third (35.3%) of those suffering from severe depression seek treatment from a mental health professional.
Depression can co-occur and complicate other medical conditions.
Screenings are often the first step in getting help.
Who Should Get Screened?
People suffering from depression often experience some of these key symptoms:
A persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood
Sleeping too little, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Restlessness or irritability
Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
Fatigue or loss of energy
Thoughts of death or suicide
Screenings are not a professional diagnosis. Screenings point out the presence or absence of depressive symptoms and provide a referral for further evaluation if needed. You should see your doctor or a qualified mental health professional if you experience five or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.
Source: Mental Health America
https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/