Feeling Sad, Angry or Anxious? Free Online Resource for All GIC Members
From the
GIC Fall 2008 Newsletter 
If you or someone you care about is feeling sad, angry or anxious, you may not be sure whether or not it's serious. Don't take a chance. Find out whether or not you or your loved one is depressed and needs help by taking advantage of United Behavioral Health's free, anonymous online resource for all GIC enrollees. United Behavioral Health offers free online questionnaires to help you assess your risk for depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and alcoholism.
To use this tool, select "click here to enter with only an access code" and then enter the GIC's access code of 10910 to take a quick, anonymous survey under the Find Resources section of the website. If the survey shows signs of depression, get help. If you are a member of one of the UniCare State Indemnity Plans or Navigator by Tufts Health Plan, contact United Behavioral Health. If you're a member of another GIC health plan, contact the plan . If you are feeling suicidal, call 911 immediately for help.
In addition to the online survey, UBH's website has a wealth of information pertaining to depression, stress, and other mental health issues. Another online source of free mental health surveys, available to all Massachusetts workers, is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Suicide Prevention Program and can be accessed at Mental Health Screening. Click on the Massachusetts Workplace link.
Common signs of depression that last more than two weeks:
- Feeling miserable, sad or irritable
- Losing interest in most activities
- Feeling tired
- Poor concentration
- Thinking of death or suicide
- Loss of self esteem
- Alcohol or drug abuse
Depression is very common. One in four women and one in eight men will suffer from major depression during their lifetime, according to Families for Depression Awareness. Early treatment is critical for a positive outcome. A depressive episode, left untreated, can last six months or recur over a period of years. And, most critically, depression is the leading cause of suicide. Fortunately, more than 80 percent of people with clinical depression can be successfully treated, according to Mental Health America. With early recognition, intervention, and support, most people can overcome clinical depression and pick up where they left off.
This information provided by the Group Insurance Commission.
