An important part of Mental Illness Awareness Week is that October 6th is National Depression Screening Day. Each year, organizations strive to raise awareness about depression in the United States and encourage others to get screened for the condition. Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, and it affects more than 16 million adults in the U.S. each year.
Screening is incredibly important for many health conditions, as it can provide an easy way to identify the first signs of illness. When it comes to mental illness, some people can be hesitant to visit the doctor when symptoms may arise – but speaking to a clinician is important, as screening can help all individuals struggling with depression take the first step towards diagnosis and treatment and potentially manage the condition before it gets severe.
There are a number of free and confidential questionnaires online – including this one from Mental Health America – that can help you identify initial signs of depression.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, you can find helpful resources from the National Alliance on Mental Illness. If you are not satisfied with your current depression treatment, learn more about how the Genomind Pharmacogenetic (PGx) test may be able to help you and your doctor find the right treatment for you.
