Caregiver mental health screening (1629)

Key points below


What is mental health screening and why should I complete it?

Having a child with a chronic illness can affect the mental health of the family. This creates challenges for the patient and the caregivers. Mental health screening is done to look for any potential signs or symptoms of problems with emotional wellness. Completing this screening in clinic is optional.

How is the mental health screening done? 

You will be asked to answer some questions.  There are 2 sets of questions for depression (PHQ-8) and anxiety (GAD-7).  Each screener is less than 10 questions.   Each question has points which will be added together to get a score.  The total score will show how your emotional wellness may be affected.  

What should I know about my score?

If your score is 5 or higher on either screener, we suggest that you talk with your primary care provider.  They can help you decide on the best plan for you.  The clinic does not keep track of parent scores. Parent scores are not kept in your child’s medical record.  

How can I get help?

There are resources for you to help with your emotional wellness.  Please contact one of the following for help.  Tell them you have a child with a chronic illness.
Your Primary Care Physician or Insurance Plan
Your Clinic’s Psychologist or Social Worker
Mental Health of America – Wisconsin (offers resources by county)
(866) 948-6483 or www.mhawisconsin.org
National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI) – Wisconsin (offers resources/programs by county)
(800) 236-2988 or www.namiwisconsin.org/find-help-near-you/
Impact 211 (offers resources by county)
(866) 211-3380 or www.impactinc.org
National Hopeline Network (counselors available 24/7)
(800) 422-4273

ALERT

Your child needs you. If you are in crisis or have thoughts of potentially wanting to harm yourself, please call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.