National Depression Screening Day
National Depression Screening Day is designed to call attention to the illness of depression on a national level and designed to educate the public about symptoms and effective treatment, to offer individuals the opportunity to be screened for depression and to connect those in need to the mental health care system in Delaware. In 2008, 15 agencies statewide participated with MHA to continue this good work for all communities in Delaware. Screening toolkits were provided to all that participated which provided a quick and easy way to spot the first signs of serious mental illness and is an instrument to reach people who might not otherwise seek help.
Clinical Depression is a common medical illness affecting more than 19 million American adults each year. Over 61,000 adult Delawareans suffer from a mood disorder including major depression or bipolar disorder. Over 51,000 Delawareans reported experiencing at least one major depressive episode in the past year.
It is very important for people to understand the connection of mental health to physical health and overall well-being. An initiative such as National Depression Screening Day works to provide Delawareans options if they are reluctant to seek help and it also establishes prevention and early intervention.
MHA is pleased and fortunate to participate in National Depression Screening Day and will be sponsoring this year at various sites in early October. For further information please contact the Mental Health Association in Delaware at (302) 654-6833.
About The Event
This year, National Depression Screening Day will take place the week of October 4th, specifically on October 7th. Free screenings will be available for adults at various sites throughout the state of Delaware. If you would like a free depression screening, keep an eye on our website or newsletter to find a list of sites and times where you can go to take a free screening. If you are a professional, consider participating in National Depression Screening Day by making your organization or agency a site where screenings are administered the week of October 4th. Your participation could lead to help for those in need of treatment who might not otherwise seek it out. We hope you join us in our mission of promoting mental health throughout our state.
New Castle - (302) 577-2484 - Kent/Sussex - (800) 345-6785
or go the nearest hospital or emergency center, or call 911.