Feeling down? You may be one of millions of Americans who suffers from depression. A free screening will help evaluate your mental health.
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Millions of Americans suffer from depression each day – many of them without knowing it. Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness are typically associated with depression; but how does a person know if they truly suffer from a depressive disorder?

As a part of National Depression Screening Day (NDSD), Jair Soares, M.D., associate professor of psychiatry and Aaron and Bobbie Elliot Krus Chair, and his research team will conduct free depression screenings from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Oct. 6 in the lecture hall foyer. NDSD began 15 years ago as the first nationwide, community-based mental health screening program.

Depression will be measured with a validated, structured screening questionnaire that will pinpoint the likelihood that the individual suffers from depression. The screening will take about 20 minutes and will help individuals to learn more about their mental health.

Dr. Soares recommends participation in this screening to anyone who goes through time periods when they feel extremely sad. Those who test positive will be recommended for different methods of treatment.

For more information, contact Rhonda Barnard, study coordinator: barnardr@uthscsa.edu.