We know the importance of prevention when it comes to physical illness. We make sure we have routine checkups and we are generally aware of the strategies to recognize early signs of disease, which increases the chance of recovery. The same is true of mental illness. Identifying behavioral health needs early on leads to diagnosis and treatment, resulting in an improved quality of life.
In order to help people with prevention year-round, 9Health has recently developed new eTools that focus on mental health. By answering seven to 10 questions, 9Health will provide accurate information about the score you receive on the screenings. Depending on your results, it may be an indicator that it’s time to begin an open conversation about your mental health.
For those who may need additional help, 9Health has partnered with Spark the Change Colorado’s, Pro Bono Mental Health Program to provide free in-person therapy with a licensed professional. The program connects people to licensed, or those seeking licensure, and insured volunteer therapists, counselors, and other professionals with individuals in Colorado in need of counseling.
How It Works
Taking a free mental health screening is one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. Conditions such as depression and anxiety are real, common, and treatable. Recovery is possible.
We spoke to several people, who agreed to tell us about their experiences using the anxiety and depression screening tools which can be accessed as follows:
Anxiety Screening https://www.9healthfair.org/anxiety-screening/
Depression Screening https://www.9healthfair.org/depression-screening/
After taking the online screening, a woman experiencing symptoms of anxiety reported that “The screening was helpful in finding out how severe my anxiety was. I always knew that I suffered from some form of anxiety, but never took the time to get confirmation. I appreciate the fact that 9Health is providing education about local programs like Spark the Change Colorado.”
We also found from someone who took the depression screening that she indeed had symptoms of mild depression. After taking the screening, she realized she could contact Spark the Change Colorado to learn more about the free in-person therapy program and talk to someone who can assist with her symptoms.
“Not only was it easy to use, but it helped uncover my symptoms of anxiety and depression. I felt better immediately because I finally knew I wasn’t alone and actually had something that could be treated. I didn’t know where to go or who to see, and this program made all the difference. I can’t imagine having to go through life feeling so despondent and I advise anyone who is suffering to try it.”
So many people these days are suffering and that’s why it’s important to know where to go to get the resources you need and why mental health screenings are vital. You don’t have to wait for health fairs to come around, because this is a year-round service and it’s free.
If you are in crisis, call The Colorado Crisis Services Line, 1-844-493-TALK (8255). This toll-free line is available 24/7, 365 days a year for anyone affected by a mental health, substance use or emotional crisis. All calls are connected to a mental health professional who will provide immediate support and connection to further resources. This resource provides interpretation services in more than 100 languages, including Spanish.
Please visit https://www.9healthfair.org/etools/#mental-health to take the anxiety screener and depression screener.
