By THE COUNSELING CENTER
World Mental Health Day and National Depression Screening Day (NDSD) is coming up on Oct. 10. The World Health Organization has identified this day in hopes of bringing awareness to various mental health issues that individuals face across the world.
On Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, The Counseling and Psychological Services Center will be participating in the National Depression Screening Day. Students can stop by the Counseling Center, 441 Western Avenue, on Oct. 10 from 12 to 4 p.m. to complete a brief depression screening, followed by a one-on-one session with a counselor to review their results. All results are kept confidential. If you are not available on that date, we can make arrangements to provide the screening at a different time.
The National Depression Screening Day occurs throughout the United States at various hospitals, clinics, health service centers, schools, and college counseling centers. This day gives all students the opportunity to reach out to the Counseling Center if they have symptoms of depression, or if they have a friend, partner, or loved one who may be struggling. You can also use this opportunity to learn more about depression and how to help someone. This year’s theme nationwide is “Reach out;” so if you feel like you want to talk to someone, or have someone in mind that could use a check-in, please drop by and see us.
It is completely normal to feel sad or low at times, especially regarding an upsetting experience or situation, such as a break up, illness, problems with family or friends, or simply because that is your mood that day. However, this type of sadness will eventually subside, and individuals can go on with their daily activities. Depression is different than slight sadness or “the blues” that someone may experience. Read on to learn the symptoms of clinical depression.
Who should get screened?
Any student experiencing symptoms of depression, such as:
A persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood
Sleeping too little, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
Reduced appetite and weight loss; or increased appetite and weight gain
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Restlessness or irritability
Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
Fatigue or loss of energy
Inability to complete your normal, daily tasks
Thoughts of death or suicide (If you feel that you are unsafe, call Campus Security immediately at 518-454-5187)
If you have any of these symptoms, stop in for a screening on Thursday, Oct. 10 from 12 to 4 p.m. Or, you can come do a brief screening during any of our weekday office hours. Chances are that for quite some time, you have believed that something may be wrong. Don’t wait any longer… We are here to help!
To promote NDSD, use the hashtag #NDSD on Thursday, Oct. 10. Everyone’s wellness and safety is important. Help us to spread the word across the entire campus that help is available!
If you have any concerns about your mental health and/or wellness, please visit the Counseling Center at 441 Western Avenue. We are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit the therapy dogs in the EAC Main Lounge every Wednesday from 3 to 5 p.m. Follow us on Instagram @csrcounselingctr. If you have any questions, please call us at 518-454-5200.
