National Depression Screening Day: Thursday, Oct. 6
Thursday, Oct. 6, is National Depression Screening Day. The National Institute of Mental Health recognizes depression as an ever-increasing health problem in the United States, with a lifetime prevalence of nearly 20 percent. In addition, several recent reports suggest that rates of psychological problems, including depression, are on the rise among college students. The good news is that nearly 80 percent of people with clinical depression can be treated successfully. The members of Active Minds (a student-run campus mental health awareness organization) will offer a free and confidential depression screening on that day. The screening also assesses the possible presence of bipolar disorder, post-partum depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress.
The screenings will be conducted in Room 110 of the Gallagher Center from 12-3 p.m. and simply involve anonymous administration of a brief questionnaire. For those concerned about a relative or friend, numerous informative brochures will be available. Referrals will be provided. Those who take the screening measure will be entered into a raffle for the highly sought after Sigmund Freud action figure.
Further information about the depression screening may be obtained by calling Dr. Tim Osberg at ext. 8524.