A Simple Check-Up for Mental Health

Family physicians may find themselves on the frontlines of prevention.

By Colin Allen, published on September 01, 2003

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.