Mental health screenings: What they are and why they matter for your well-being

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health—but in our busy lives, it can be easily overlooked.

The World Health Organization defines mental health as a state of well-being that integrates emotional, psychological and social functioning. Your mental well-being exists on a continuum and can change from day to day depending on stressors in your environment. Good mental health can positively affect your life to achieve your learning or career goals, thrive in your social circle and contribute to your community. Poor mental health can negatively affect your physical health and even lead to isolation.

This is why it’s important to understand your mental health and seek care when you need to. There are several validated mental health screening tools that healthcare providers use. Here’s what you should know about these screenings and how they can help you feel your best.

What is mental health screening?

A mental health screening is a short questionnaire or conversation designed to identify signs of conditions such as anxiety, depression or stress-related disorders. Think of it as a wellness checkup for your mind. It’s quick, easy and confidential.

Screenings don’t necessarily provide a diagnosis, but they can highlight areas where you might benefit from additional care or support. They’re often available online through your healthcare provider, as part of your annual well visit or during routine visits to your primary care physician.

4 reasons why mental health screenings are important

Studies show that half of all mental health conditions begin by age 14, and most by age 24, yet, on average, most people wait about 11 years to get the support they need to feel their best.

Mental health screenings help close that gap. The benefits of getting a mental health screening include:

1. Access to support: Mental health screenings can help direct you to community and professional resources to support your needs.
2. Better understanding of what you’re experiencing: The signs and symptoms of anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions can be subtle. A screening can help clarify the problem and thus reduce stress and help you take action.
3. Early intervention: “A stitch in time saves nine” is a trite but true parable, as early detection can lead to early treatment, which tends to lead to better outcomes—before symptoms progress to affect your career, personal relationships or overall quality of life.
4. Reduced stigma: Including mental health screenings as part of routine care can make talking about your mental health easier.

Types of mental health screenings

There are several different types of mental health screenings designed to assess different aspects of your emotional well-being.

Two of the most common mental health screenings include:

PHQ-9: The depression screening tool

The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PH-9) is one of the most commonly used tools for diagnosing and monitoring depression. This brief questionnaire asks about your mood, sleep, appetite, energy levels and other symptoms over the course of two weeks. It takes just a few minutes to complete and helps your provider understand whether you might be experiencing depression.

GAD-7: The anxiety screening tool

The Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) is designed to screen for anxiety conditions. It evaluates if you have excess worry, restlessness, irritability or other anxiety symptoms.

Depending on your concerns, your provider may recommend screenings for eating disorders, substance use, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other specific conditions.

Your results can guide your doctor toward a more in-depth evaluation or connect you with a mental health specialist.

Signs you should consider a mental health screening

Consider reaching out to your provider to schedule a mental health screening if you notice:

• Activities that used to bring you joy now feel like a chore or you have little desire to do them
• Stress feels unmanageable and is interfering with your sleep, work or relationships
• Your appetite has changed noticeably, or you’ve experienced unexpected weight changes
• You’ve been feeling persistently sad, anxious or overwhelmed
• You’re having trouble focusing at work or making decisions about everyday things
• You’re pulling back from friends, family or other social activities
• Your sleep has changed significantly – either you can’t fall asleep, are waking up numerous times during the night or you’re sleeping more than usual
• Excessive worry or fear is showing up in your day-to-day life

Life transitions are also a good reason to check in on your mental health. Starting a new job, going through a breakup, becoming a first-time parent, losing a loved one or dealing with ongoing financial stress can all take a toll on your emotional well-being. A screening can help you understand whether what you’re feeling is a normal response to change or something that might benefit from additional support.

How to talk to your doctor about your mental health

Talking about your mental health can make you feel vulnerable, especially if it is your first time bringing it up. Your health care professional is there to support you and your whole health. If talking about it feels hard to do alone, bring a friend or family member.

If your provider or clinic doesn’t proactively offer mental health screenings, you can ask about them at your next appointment.

What happens after your mental health screening?

If your screening suggests you may need additional support, your provider will work with you to explore treatment options that fit your needs and lifestyle. These might include:

• Lifestyle changes such as improving sleep, adding more exercise into your routine or adjusting your diet
• Medication
• Online therapy platforms that offer access to licensed therapists through secure digital platforms.
• Talk therapy or counseling can help you develop coping strategies and work through stress
• Support groups where you can connect with others who are in similar situations

Your care team is by your side to support you, answer your questions and help you find what works best for you.

Take the first step toward feeling better

You deserve to live your best life. The World Health Organization goes even further and calls mental health a basic human right. Mental health is not just the absence of illness, it is also the promotion of emotional, psychological and social well-being. Mental health screening tools can start you on a journey to living a more meaningful life.

Whether you’re considering a mental health screening or you’re ready to take the next step in your care, speak to your primary care provider.