National Depression & Mental Health Screening Month

Our therapists in Orem recognize that October is not just filled with ghouls and candy, but also with a focus on mental health education and depression awareness. It is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month. This observance works to bring awareness to the need for depression awareness and the need for accessible and affordable mental health screenings.

Depression affects nearly 1 in 5 adults and youth ages 12-17. Depression is a mental illness that can affect all aspects of life, including relationships, school, and work. It can happen to anyone, but people who have experienced abuse, severe losses, or other stressful events are more likely to develop it. A mix of environmental, genetic, psychological and biological/biochemical factors can also come into play. Luckily, depression is a highly treatable condition, with many different treatment options, but the first step is to seek out professional help and be screened for it.

Just as excessive sneezing and fatigue can be obvious indicators of the common cold, mental health care experts have created two easy screening questions indicative of depression. If you are worried about yourself or a loved one, answering these two questions and then seeking out professional help will put you on the path to healing.

Question #1: How often do you take little to no interest or pleasure in doing things you once found enjoyable?

Question #2: How often are you feeling down, depressed or hopeless?

If you answered that yes, you have felt that way over half the days in a 2 week period, please seek professional help. It is important to remember that not everyone experiences depression in the same way. Please contact our therapists in Orem if you’d like to discuss the answers to your screening questions or if we can help in any other way. 801-224-2313