There is no tool like a blood pressure cuff or scale that can measure precisely how we are feeling mentally. That’s why mental health experts are beginning to integrate behavioral health into primary care through screenings as an initial step to behavioral health services.
“We know there is a persistent and unfortunate stigma with mental health that makes many people uncomfortable talking about their own mental health issues, even with their own provider,” said Dr. Jacob Diestelmann, Marshfield Clinic Health System psychologist.
Mental health screenings assist with early detection of concerns
Mental health experts have developed and refined methods to screen a patient’s mental health. One main way this is done is by having patients answer a series of questions during their primary care appointments.
“With screening, mental health concerns or symptoms can be identified and necessary treatment or referrals can be made during that appointment,” Dr. Diestelmann said.
Early detection of behavioral health concerns can help prevent future mental health illnesses.
At Marshfield Clinic Health System, patient surveys are in use to screen patients for signs of mental health needs. If patients register a higher than baseline score, that is a signal for the primary care provider to follow up.
Patients experience mental health symptoms for a range of reasons. Primary care providers can ask the right questions and involve other specialties to determine what is causing the symptoms.
“A patient could be showing mental health symptoms because they just had a heart attack and just aren’t feeling well. They may be having difficulties with school, leading to stress or anxiety. Or it could be that they have severe depression. Screening helps us get that conversation started and get to the bottom of what is going on,” said Dr. Kelsie-Marie Offenwanger, Marshfield Children’s psychologist.
Primary care providers can prescribe antidepressants, but may also refer a patient to a mental health expert when more specialized care is needed.
Behavioral health integration in primary care helps increase access to care
Marshfield Clinic Health System was a pioneer with integrating mental health care with primary care. The Primary Care Behavioral Health service allows these two groups to work hand-in-hand.
“Primary Care Behavioral Health offers mental health care to our adult and pediatric primary care providers,” said Dr. Stephanie Kohlbeck, Marshfield Children’s psychologist. “Primary care providers identify patients who may need behavioral health services. The patient is then connected to our mental health care team.”
Services provided range from same-day, problem-focused behavioral health interventions during their wellness appointments, to four to six brief sessions in primary care behavioral health, to referrals for more long-term interventions and/or assessments.
Services offered through Primary Care Behavioral Health include:
- ADHD assessment and strategies
- Behavioral management strategies
- Treatment for mild mood and behavioral issues
- Coping strategies to assist with diagnosis and treatment of a chronic medical condition
- Pain management
- Postpartum assessment and support
- School-related issues (academics, behavioral issues, social concerns)
- Stress reduction skills
- Tips to prepare for medical procedures
- Weight management
“Behavioral health consults will need a referral from your primary care provider. Talk to your provider or your child’s provider for more information,” said Dr. Kohlbeck.
For questions about mental health, talk to a Marshfield Clinic Health System provider.
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