A Simple Check-Up for Mental Health

Along with taking your blood pressure, a quick mental health screen
may soon become part of your physician's routine. A test known as the
Mental Health Index-5 (MHI-5) is accurate and simple enough to be
included in the standard check-up, finds recent research from Texas
A&M University.

In the study, 591 patients ranging in age from 18 to 86 agreed to
take the MHI-5 during their check-up. Of those deemed 'at-risk' by the
test, 82 percent turned out to have major depression or a panic disorder
upon further clinical examination. Study author and psychologist Mary
Meagher also notes that the MHI-5 was very accurate in ruling out those
who did not have a disorder.

Most visits to the doctor last 15 minutes or less. But the MHI-5
can be filled out quickly--in the waiting room or even while the nurse is
taking vital signs. The five-question index measures anxiety, depression,
loss of behavioral control and psychological well-being.

One out of three patients who sees a primary care physician suffers
a mental illness--a statistic that renders the test a necessary tool.
"It's clear that mental health treatment must be more fully integrated
into the primary care system," Meagher says.

Most psychologically stressed patients don't bother to discuss
their problems with their doctors. Meagher maintains that it is up to the
medical profession, especially family care physicians, to take the
initiative.