Major depression is one of the most common mental health disorders, affecting more than 16 million American adults each year. Many different factors can contribute to symptoms of depression, but its’ presentation can be different across individuals. It can affect anyone at any time regardless of risk factors. Like screenings for other illnesses, screenings for depression and other mental health conditions should be a routine part of healthcare, as it can co-occur with and complicate other conditions. BCBSRI supports and encourages the use of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and other evidence-based mental health screening tools for the screening of mental health conditions in primary care settings. Screening all patients allows for a discussion around treatment options which can prevent worsening of symptoms or the need for more intensive care in the future. 

BCBSRI offers the following resources and programs for members: