Test Your Mood on National Depression Screening Day with a Free Screening
Whether for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or depression—health screenings provide a quick and easy way to spot the first signs of serious illness and can reach people who might not otherwise seek professional medical advice. - On Thursday, October 7th as part of National Depression Screening Day, the Mental Health Association in Texas, Samaritan Center for Counseling and Pastoral Care, Saint James Episcopal Church, and the Austin Psychiatric Society is offering free mental health information materials and confidential depression screenings in the Austin and San Marcos areas.
(PRWEB) October 8, 2004
Whether for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or depression—health screenings provide a quick and easy way to spot the first signs of serious illness and can
Reach people who might not otherwise seek professional medical advice.
On Thursday, October 7th as part of National Depression Screening Day, the Mental Health Association in Texas, Samaritan Center for Counseling and Pastoral Care, Saint James Episcopal Church, and the Austin Psychiatric Society is offering free mental health information materials and confidential depression screenings in the Austin and San Marcos areas.
“People with depression often feel alone, not realizing that depression affects many people,” said Lynn Lasky, LMSW, president and CEO of the Mental Health Association in Texas. “In fact, one out of every five adults may experience a depression at some point in their lives, yet fewer than half of those suffering from the
Disorder actually receive treatment, and depression is treatable.”
National Depression Screening Day, held each year during Mental Illness Awareness Week, is designed to call attention to the illnesses of depression on a national level. It is also an opportunity to educate the public about the symptoms and effective treatments of depression, a time for individuals to be screened for the disorder, and a way to connect those in need of treatment with the mental health care system.
“Clinical depression is a common, yet treatable, medical illness and public health issue affecting more than 19 million American adults each year,” said Lasky. “Depression is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away.”
Mental illnesses often have symptoms that are confused with those of other illnesses, or symptoms that many do not think to discuss with their health care provider. National Depression Screening Day is an opportunity for the public to learn more about the signs and symptoms of these disorders. Some may be surprised to recognize the signs and symptoms in themselves or someone they love.
Common symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness, loss of pleasure in usual activities, feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of energy, restlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide.
“For people with depression, without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years; delaying a person’s ability to live and enjoy life,” said Lasky. “Take the test, and if you need to, see a doctor and if you need it, get treatment. Treatment works.”
Free Depression Screening Sites in Austin and San Marcos
In Austin:
Samaritan Center for Counseling
And Pastoral Care
5425-A Burnet Road
Time: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
In Austin:
Saint James Episcopal Church
3701 East Martin Luther King Jr.
Time: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
In Austin:
Austin Psychiatric Society and the
Depressive and Bipolar Support Alliance
At Book People
603 N. Lamar (6th & Lamar)
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
In San Marcos:
Samaritan Center for Counseling
And Pastoral Care
At H-E-B
200 W. Hopkins Street
Time: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
FACTS: Why Screen for Depression?
• Clinical depression is a serious, yet treatable, medical illness.
• Clinical depression can lead to suicide.
• Sometimes people with depression mistakenly believe that the symptoms of depression are a "normal part of life."
• Clinical depression affects men and women of all ages, races and socioeconomic groups.
• One in four women and one in ten men will experience depression at some point during their lifetime.
• Two thirds of those suffering from the illness do not seek the necessary treatment.
• Depression can co-occur and complicate other medical conditions.
• More than 80% of all cases of clinical depression can be effectively treated with medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both.
• Screenings are often the first step in getting help.
What Is a Depression Screening Like?
Attendees at screening programs, which are free and confidential;
• complete a written screening test,
• discuss the results with a mental health professional,
• and, if necessary, learn where to go for additional help.
Who Should Attend a Depression Screening?
People suffering from depression often experience some of these key symptoms*:
• A persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood
• Sleeping too little, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
• Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Restlessness or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Thoughts of death or suicide
-Depression screenings are not a professional diagnosis. Screenings point out the presence or absence of depressive symptoms and provide a referral for further evaluation if needed.
Individuals should see a doctor or a qualified mental health professional if they experience five or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with their daily routine.
Mental health matters in your life. The Mental Health Association in Texas is the stateÂ’s oldest citizensÂ’ mental health advocacy and education organization. For more mental health information, visit us at www. mhatexas. org/ (http://www. mhatexas. org/) or call 512-454-3706 x 218.
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