If you feel blue more often than not, you owe it to yourself to find out if you have depression, a treatable disease that strikes millions of American—especially women.
Today is National Depression Screening Day, where clinicians at more than 1,000 locations nationwide will offer free, anonymous assessments for depression and other treatable conditions including anxiety disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. To find a participating site or to take a screening online, visit helpyourselfhelpothers.org.
How it works: You complete a questionnaire, receive mental health information, and, if applicable, a list of treatment providers in your area. The annual event began in 1991 and is sponsored by the non-profit group Screening for Mental Health, Inc.
And in case you feel ashamed or that you should “just get over” feeling sad, take a minute to digest how prevalent depression is in the United States. In 2004, an estimated 31 million adults had experienced at least one major depressive episode in their lifetime, and an estimated 17 million reported having an episode in the past year, says the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Plus, women are 70% more likely than men to experience depression during their lifetime, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
If you think that you or someone you know might be suffering from depression, do the right thing for your health and take the time to get screened. You won’t regret it.
More from WH:
Depression Treatment: Bright Light Therapy
How to Manage Post-Traumatic Stress
Suicide Warning Signs
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