October is Mental Health Screening month! This initiative was started by the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to raise public awareness of mental health issues. One in five Americans is affected by mental health conditions and despite the high prevalence, mental disorders often go undiagnosed, untreated, or under-treated in primary care.
What is a mental health screening?
A mental health screening is an exam of your emotional health and helps you detect a mental health disorder. They are private and anonymous, cost-effective, quick, and accessible. Screening assesses risk factors, which can be genetic, behavioral, or environmental. Additionally, benefits include distinguishing between those who could benefit from minimal intervention and others who may require further diagnostic assessment or possible treatment.
After completing a screening, a mental health provider (a doctor or a therapist) can give you a full assessment and talk to you about options for how to feel better. Screenings are beneficial, because they allow for early identification and intervention, leading to better outcomes. Screenings may also lessen long-term disability, preventing years of suffering.
Why are mental health screenings important?
Depression, Anxiety, Eating Disorders, and PTSD are among some of the most common mental health diagnoses detected from mental health screenings. With a high prevalence of condition related symptoms, often we may be unaware of severe underlying problems requiring extra attention. Instead of creating an environment filled with shame or fear, which stops many from seeking help, Ketamine Health Centers urges everyone to do their part in ending the stigma. Mental health illnesses are real, common, and treatable; recovery is very possible with the right steps.
Participating in a mental health screening is just as important as getting regular check-ups with your doctor. Seven to ten million people in the United States have at least one mental health disorder, in addition to an existing alcohol or drug abuse disorder. Too often, these individuals are treated for only one of the two disorders or receive no treatment at all. In an effort to bridge the gap, mental health screenings help address these discrepancies and allow people to receive not only the help they need, but the help they deserve.
What can Ketamine Health Centers do for you?
At Ketamine Health Centers, we believe mental health screenings play a crucial role in preventative care and overall well-being, so we will be offering free mental health screenings this October. If you or someone you know is in need of a team to help them regain control, please contact us. From our therapy programs to our cutting-edge treatments, our medical team takes the time to get to know you and your goals, personalizing your experience at any of our locations. What are you waiting for? Better days are ahead.