October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month

This article is brought to you by our partners at Learn to Live. Learn to Live is a free wellness and mental health service offered to all Pension Fund members who are active ministers and their household members (spouse/Qualified Domestic Partner and children) over the age of 13. Learn more on our Learn to Live page. 

The State of Mental Health

Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being. Just as we prioritize regular physical check-ups to maintain our physical health, it is equally essential to take care of our mental health. However, despite the growing awareness of mental health issues, many individuals continue to suffer in silence, afraid to seek help due to the fear of judgment, lack of strong connection to others, or shame from people around them or from cultural norm.

The Importance of Mental Health Screening

1. Early Detection and Intervention:
   Mental health screening serves as an invaluable tool for early detection of potential mental health issues. Just as a physical exam can catch a health problem before it becomes severe, mental health screening can identify psychological distress and disorders in their early stages. This early detection allows for timely intervention and treatment, which can significantly improve outcomes.
2. Reducing the Stigma of Mental Health:
   By normalizing mental health screening, we can help reduce the stigma that surrounds it. When people understand that mental health is just as important as physical health, they are more likely to seek help without feeling ashamed or judged. This cultural shift is essential in fostering a more compassionate and supportive society.
3. Promoting Self-Care:
   Mental health screening encourages self-awareness and self-care. It prompts individuals to reflect on their emotional well-being and take proactive steps to maintain and improve their mental health. Just as we engage in regular exercise and healthy eating to maintain physical health, mental health screening promotes mental self-care.

Addressing the Shame

Mental health screening is not something to be ashamed of; it is an essential part of taking care of ourselves. The shame associated with seeking help for mental health issues is a barrier that prevents many from getting the support they need. However, by promoting the importance of mental health screening, educating the public, and fostering open conversations, we can break down the stigma and create a society that values and supports mental well-being. It is time to recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health and treat it with the same care and respect. Finding mental health support that is sensitive to your life experience and cultural background is important. Finding the right program or support to make you feel comfortable is vital, please keep seeking support if at first you don’t succeed.

Not sure if you’re depressed? Get screened.

Screening for depression can help identify it early on. This helps people get the help they need, when they need it. Are you feeling sad for long periods? Have your appetite or sleep patterns changed? Have you lost your energy? Find out if you could benefit from mental health support by getting screened using Learn to Live’s assessment, which is available at no cost prior to enrolling in one of our online programs. It takes only 5 minutes to complete, and afterward you’ll get a full overview of your mental well-being.

Get started today by visiting our Learn to Live page. If you’re already a member, simply sign in with your username and password.

Gifts by generous donors to Ministerial Relief and Assistance (MRA) make programs like Learn to Live possible. Learn more about MRA here.