Integrated Health and Mental Health Care
The Mental Health Association is dedicated to integrating mental health and substance use screening and treatment into primary medical care in our community. We believe that mental well-being and physical health are closely related, and that treating them together leads to better outcomes.
Local Health Partners
We've partnered with the Fauquier Free Clinic to create a "collaborative care" model, where patients receive mental health screenings and referrals during medical visits.
Increasing access to mental health care
Reducing stigma
Improving health outcomes
We're now exploring ways to bring this model to other primary care settings, including tele-mental health care.
Why Integrated Care Matters
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Most people with mental health challenges are diagnosed and treated in primary care settings.
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Mental health conditions often complicate other medical conditions, making them harder to treat.
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Medical problems can lead to behavioral health issues like depression, anxiety, and substance use.
Impact on Overall Health
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High co-morbidity rates of health and mental health conditions (estimated 40% or more of patients at the Free Clinic have symptoms of depression and/or anxiety)
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Mental health and substance use conditions are widespread among persons with chronic illnesses
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Depression and anxiety can worsen management of chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease and diabetes
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High rates of overall health problems and premature death among individuals with serious mental illnesses (per CDC data)
Learn More.
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Learn More. ✻
Interested in learning more about our integrated care efforts?
Contact us to explore ways to get involved and make a difference in our community.