Free depression screening available Oct. 11

By Mary Fowler

Free, anonymous screenings for depression and manic-depression will be available from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Oct. 11 at the Westside Community Center, 715 W. Fifth St. (just east of Hardy Drive).
Kyrene Corridor residents participating in the program will have the opportunity to take a written self-test for depression, talk one-on-one with a mental health professional and analyze suicide risk of friend or family member.

Referral to treatment centers also will be provided.
The service is being held in connection with National Depression Screen Day on Thursday, Oct. 11.
According to medical authorities, people with depression often feel alone, not realizing that depression affects more than 17 million Americans in any given year.
Common symptoms include feelings of sadness, loss of pleasure in usual activities, feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of energy, restlessness and thoughts of death or suicide. Manic-depression also includes feelings of euphoria and/or agitation.

Fewer than half of those suffering from the disorders actually receives treatment; however, depression is one of the most treatable of illnesses, with the vast majority of sufferers showing improvement in as little as eight weeks.
The public is encouraged to call (480) 858-2430 for more information.

Mary Fowler writes about City of Tempe programs and events.

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