National Mental Health and Depression Screening Month are just one of the many mental health-focused celebrations taking place in the month of October. While many celebrations are generalized to raise awareness about depression or mental health, this particular focus is specified, crucially. Potentially hundreds of millions of people around the globe are living with symptoms of mental health issues like depression at any given time. Unaware of the symptoms, the problems they cause, or the fact that help is available, many of our fellows will live struggling, suffering, in pain, and thinking there is something wrong with them. Until a diagnosis and a treatment plan, it is hard for people to understand exactly what they are experiencing.
Approximately 25% of adults suffer from the symptoms of an undiagnosed mental illness in any given year. Adults aren’t just suffering some symptoms of mental illness. These adults are living with the pain of symptoms which are diagnosable, meaning, they can find help and treatment if they are given a proper diagnosis. Mental health and depression screenings help people put a name to their experience, which takes much of the confusing, frustrating, isolating tension out of their lives. Now with an answer to what they have been living through, people have the chance to seek professional help, therapy, or treatment. As a result, they begin the journey to recovery because the very first part of their story has started to unravel and become understood.
Depression is one of the most globally experienced mental health conditions. According to WHO, the World Health Organization, more than 300 million people worldwide are living with depression. In July of 2018, a study published in Psychiatric Services found that the rates for depression screenings among adults in the U.S. have gone up in recent years, but still remain troublingly low. Since 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has strongly encouraged routine screenings for depression for adults.
How Do I Get Screened?
During the month of awareness, local events offering free screenings, assessments, and evaluations for depression and other mental health issues may be taking place. You can call your doctor and ask for a screening or a recommendation to a psychiatrist who can conduct a thorough assessment.
What Do I Do If I’m Depressed?
Depression can be caused by a number of issues from genetics to environment, life events to weather. Another major and common cause of depression is trauma. If you are screened positive for depression, there is possibly unresolved, unhealed trauma in your life.
If you or someone you know has struggled immensely with trauma, help is available. Call The Guest House Ocala today for information on our residential treatment programs for trauma, addiction, and related mental health issues. 1-855-483-7800