The month of October is all about mental health! The first full week of October (2rd-8th) is Mental Illness Awareness Week, and World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10th. But there’s another day in there that doesn’t always get the attention it should: National Depression Screening Day.
This year, National Depression Screening Day is held on October 6th, 2022 as part of Mental Illness Awareness Week. Depression is a very real thing that affects millions of people. And in the light of COVID-19, we’re seeing some of the highest rates of depression yet. Is this something you are possibly struggling with?
Let’s learn more about depression, why you should get screened, and where to find a screening test.
National Depression Awareness Day: What is Depression?
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common mental health condition that has a negative impact on how you feel, think and act. Depression can be debilitating and cause a loss of interest in the activities you once enjoyed. While it can feel like there is no end to your sadness, it’s important to know that depression is treatable.
The symptoms of depression can be mild to severe, and include:
- Changes in appetite
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
- Loss of interest in activities
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Importance of Screening for Depression
With depression rising in the United States, physicians now have new recommendations to screen patients for depression. Many doctors already include depression screenings as part of their annual checkups.
If you believe you are struggling with depression, your primary care doctor can then refer you to the appropriate mental health services. You can also screen yourself using an online depression screening tool. Online screening is a quick way to determine if you are suffering from a mental health disorder.
Below are some benefits of screening for depression:
- Depression is a serious medical condition that can lead to thoughts of suicide, self-harm or death.
- Sometimes people believe the symptoms they are suffering with are a “normal part of life.” They don’t have to be!
- Clinical depression does not discriminate – it affects all people regardless of their age, gender or socioeconomic status.
- It’s possible for depression to co-occur and complicate other medical conditions.
- Screenings are often the first step in getting treatment. Depression also responds well to treatment – you DO NOT have to live in a state of despair.
Get Help for Depression Today
If you are struggling with a mental health disorder like depression, do not delay in getting appropriate treatment. Some people will end up self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, which only makes things worse. If you are already in this cycle, Awakenings Treatment Center can help.
Our dual diagnosis rehab in Agoura Hills, California addresses depression and substance abuse. We also serve members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as offer treatment for eating disorders and chronic pain. Contact us to learn more.
