Watauga Library unveils Vaya mental screening kiosk
The Watauga DemocratJun 23, 2017
BOONE - A new feature is now in the Watauga County Public Libary as
"On behalf of
The kiosk has a computer for individuals to take a survey regarding their mental health, and individuals can receive information, according to Isaacs. The survey takes around five minutes and screens for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating or substance abuse disorders.
"It's not a diagnostic machine, but evidence based and shows if the results are consistent with a mental health disorder," Isaacs explained.
The kiosk has a phone that connects to the
Isaacs said that soon there will be 23 kiosks in 23
"Public libraries see people of all socio-economic backgrounds; anyone can come," said
Anonymity was a big point of emphasis, with Isaacs and Kennedy noting that the survey is anonymous and private.
"If someone doesn't want to take the survey here, they can take a card and do the survey online at home," Isaacs noted. "De-stigmatizing mental health disorders will take time."
"We want to get people to think about mental health," Kennedy said. "Some people are more private about their needs, but every age if affected."
Isaacs also noted that kiosks already established in other counties have been "very well received."
The Mindkare Kiosk Program is funded through