The Need to Integrate Mental Health Care into Medical Practices

Did you know that when you walk into your doctor’s office, there’s a good chance mental health is on the table? Recent research shows that mental health issues are second only to musculoskeletal complaints in everyday primary care visits. That’s right—one in nine patients see their medical doctor because of mental health concerns.

A study from Duke University analyzed over 350 million visits, revealing how prevalent these issues are. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, ADHD, or more complex conditions like psychosis, primary care doctors are seeing a range of mental health challenges. In fact, during a typical visit, you might find that one in five patients is dealing with mental health issues, especially in those hitting their 40s.

This begs the question: if so many patients are seeing medical doctors for mental health issues, does it not mean that these providers should be more involved in mental health care?

With the rise of psychiatric concerns, there’s an urgent need to integrate mental health services within primary care. If not, the medical system won’t be able to meet the needs of many patients.

What can you do?

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, don’t be afraid to talk openly with your primary care provider. You may feel reluctant because you think it’s unusual to discuss psychiatric problems with doctors. But this study lets us know how common it is, so you shouldn’t feel weird about sharing.

Also, physicians need to get more attuned to mental health conditions. If possible, they can also refer the patient to a licensed mental healthcare provider who can address the issue at hand.

At the end of the day, it’s about making sure you have access to the care you need.

Need help?

If you or your loved one is battling mental health issues, feel free to contact us at Hope Mental Health. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, ADHD, or bipolar disorder, we can give you the help you need.

Author

Satu H. Woodland, PMHCNS-BC, APRN Satu Woodland is owner and clinician of Hope Mental Health, an integrative mental health practice located at Bown Crossing in Boise, Idaho. She sees children, adolescents, and adults.  Ms. Woodland with her background in nursing, prefers a holistic and integrative approach to mental health care that addresses the mind and body together. While Ms. Woodland provides medication management services in all her patients, she believes in long-lasting solutions that include a number of psychotherapies, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention therapy, attention to lifestyle, evidenced based alternative psychiatric care and spirituality. If you’d like to gain control over your mental health issues, call Hope Mental Health at 208-918-0958, or use the online scheduling tool to set up an initial consultation.