New guidance recommends regular anxiety screenings for primary care, addresses mental health concerns sooner

DELAWARE – As mental health becomes more of a priority across the United States,  new guidance is pushing for regular anxiety screenings.

The goal is to help identify signs sooner, according to the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force.

The recommendation looks to make these screenings routine for adults ages 19 to 64 in primary care settings.

The National Alliance of Mental Illness Delaware tells 47ABC last year over 32% of adults in the first state reported symptoms of anxiety or depression.

Executive Director Dr. Joshua Thomas says too often these concerns go without being diagnosed and moves like this could allow for proper care sooner. “Developing that level of trust with a primary care provider can be a really great starting point. A safe place to finally say something out loud,” Dr. Thomas said.

“So its going to take background work in equipping physician offices with the information they need to make referrals and to help them feel confident to go into a venture like this of supporting people in a new way.”

Dr. Thomas adds the challenge right now is the limited amount of resources but there’s still help available.

NAMI Delaware offers a helpline, 1(800)-950-NAMI,  if you or someone you know is in need of help.

To find more about NAMI Delaware, click here