Why National Depression Screening Day Is So Important
The Importance of Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma around Depression
Caution: The following article contains references to self-harm and suicide. Reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts or impulses of suicide, please seek immediate help by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or texting 988. Trained professionals are available around the clock to provide assistance and support.
Ways to Observe National Depression Screening Day
In observance of National Depression Screening Day during the month of October, Mental Health America recommends taking advantage of the opportunity to obtain a free mental health screening. It’s not always easy to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression, and many individuals may hesitate to seek help due to mental health stigma or misconceptions. For instance, men may struggle with depression but feel uncomfortable reaching out for support or fail to recognize their symptoms.
Fortunately, online screening tests are available for free on the Mental Health America website and other platforms. These tests can help you determine if you are displaying any symptoms of depression or other mental illnesses. While these results do not replace professional medical advice or screening by a licensed mental health expert or doctor, they can indicate the need to seek support and serve as a starting point for self-advocacy.
Understanding Depression Symptoms
As you celebrate National Depression Screening Day, it’s also important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of major depression and other depressive disorders. These symptoms may include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Irritability and agitation
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleep
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Neglecting self-care or personal hygiene
If you suspect that you may be experiencing depression, it’s crucial to seek professional help from a mental health provider for a proper diagnosis and appropriate support.
The Importance of Depression Screening
There are several reasons why screening for depression is crucial. Anyone can take a depression screening test, and doctors may also screen for depression and anxiety during routine check-ups, or upon request. It’s essential to answer screening questions honestly and accurately for the best results.
Suicide Prevention
Depression screenings can be a vital tool in suicide prevention. Major depressive disorder is associated with a risk of suicidal thoughts, so recognizing symptoms of depression before suicidal thoughts potentially develop can help providers, individuals, and parents understand if there could be a risk. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention found that 75% of adults who attempt suicide show signs that they might beforehand, including depressive symptoms such as a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities and isolating oneself from loved ones.
If an individual takes a depression screening and receives a result that indicates a high likelihood of depression, they can reach out to a mental health provider or doctor to develop a treatment plan. A recent study showed that patients who received safety planning and intervention after a suicide-related crisis were more likely to attend therapy and seek support than those who did not. They also experienced a reduction in future suicidal behaviors and thoughts.
Screening and Treatment
Taking a depression screening can be the first step toward outlining a treatment plan and reducing the likelihood of crisis, both for those who have and have not attempted suicide in the past. Free depression screenings for all communities can help mental health services and providers reach more individuals who may benefit from screening and treatment.
If you are experiencing thoughts or urges of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text 988 to talk to someone over SMS. They are available 24/7 to offer support.
Benefits of Depression Screenings
Depression screenings can provide many benefits for individuals seeking mental health support. One significant advantage is the opportunity for early treatment of depression symptoms, potentially preventing them from worsening or becoming life-threatening. Symptoms of early depression may not be severe, and individuals may not recognize them as related to depression. A screening can help identify the symptoms and indicate whether it would be beneficial to seek further testing or treatment from a mental health provider.
Early treatment can offer coping skills, medication, or a treatment plan to manage symptoms, leading to increased confidence and better mental health outcomes. Moreover, depression screenings can help individuals gain a deeper understanding of their mental health challenges and recognize the name for their symptoms. This personal understanding can also promote greater understanding and destigmatization of mental health on a broader scale.
Another benefit of depression screenings is that they can help individuals receive proper medical care without the need for multiple appointments or misdiagnosis. If someone experiences physical symptoms of depression, they may visit several doctors or specialists before discovering the underlying cause of their symptoms. With a depression screening, they can receive immediate support from a mental health provider who can screen them further or refer them to a medical doctor if necessary, ultimately reducing medical costs.
Finally, depression screenings can help individuals avoid a misdiagnosis. While depression symptoms can occur in several mental health conditions, many of them are unique to depression. With a positive depression screening, individuals can take additional screening tests and share their results with a therapist, psychiatrist, or medical professional. By narrowing down the possibilities, doctors can diagnose and treat individuals more effectively.
How Are Depression Screenings Conducted?
Depression screenings typically involve completing a short multiple-choice questionnaire that asks about your symptoms in the past two weeks. The questions may vary, but some examples include:
- How many days have you felt little pleasure in activities you usually enjoy?
- How many days have you felt low on energy, down, or tired?
- How many days have you considered suicide?
- How many days have you experienced trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much?
It’s important to take a depression screening test with a licensed healthcare professional, such as your primary care physician or a licensed therapist. You can also take an accredited online screening test from a recognized mental health organization or non-profit.
After taking the test, a high score may indicate a high risk of depression, while a low score may indicate that you are not currently experiencing depression or that you should follow up with another screening at a different time. It’s essential to discuss your results with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine what they mean for you.
Consulting with a Therapist for Depression
If your depression screening indicates moderate or high symptoms of depression, seeking therapy with a counselor may be beneficial. Even if you have already been diagnosed with depression or another mental health condition, therapy can be a valuable option. During therapy, your therapist will review your symptom history, discuss potential treatments, and ask about your goals.
For individuals who feel uneasy with in-person counseling, have difficulty finding time or transportation, or have trouble leaving home, online licensed therapists are also available. Online therapy offers a variety of formats, including phone, video, or live chat sessions with a therapist. Some platforms, such as ReachLink, provide worksheets, mental health webinars, and journaling prompts, and offer access to over hundreds of licensed therapists.
Research shows that some types of online therapy, like mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be particularly effective in treating depression and related conditions. If you’re unsure which type of therapy to pursue, your therapist can discuss conventional treatment methods and research to help you make an informed decision.
Key Points
National Depression Screening Day highlights the importance of depression screening resources and advocates for screening for all individuals, regardless of age, gender, race, or background. Taking a screening test can help you understand your mental health and determine when to seek support. Although not everyone who takes the test may have depression, taking a screening every few months or every year can help you manage your mental health.
If you’re uncertain whether you have depression, have received a high score on a depression screening, or have been diagnosed with depression in the past, remember that you’re not alone. Consider seeking guidance and support from a licensed therapist.
