Thursday is National Depression Screening Day

Editor's note: The following is a Department of Defense release.

Depression affects approximately 17 million people in the U.S., yet almost a third do not seek treatment. While depression is quite common, it is also very treatable, and diagnosing it early allows for faster and easier treatment. Each year, on National Depression Screening Day, Military Pathways, a DoD-funded initiative, offers anonymous, online mental health screenings at www.MilitaryMentalHealth.org.

Service members, veterans and their families can access the site 24/7 to see if they have symptoms of depression, PTSD or a related disorder, and get information on how and where to get help. This year, National Depression Screening Day is Thursday, October 11. 

"Depression is usually a more serious and sustained problem than simply having a bad day or feeling stressed. Unfortunately, many people do not know how to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression or where to seek help," said Dr. Robert Ciulla, Director of the Mobile Health Program at the National Center for Telehealth & Technology (T2). "An online screening, in the privacy of one's own home, is a good first step in getting a better understanding of the problem."

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Recognizing and treating depression in its early stages, before a person reaches a crisis situation, are key factors in addressing this important health issue.  Symptoms of depression can include:

• Persistent sad, anxious or "empty" feelings
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Decreased energy; feeling tired all the time
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
• Irritability, restlessness
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
• Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness or excessive sleeping
• Overeating or appetite loss
• Thoughts of suicide; suicide attempts

Military installations around the world will recognize National Depression Screening Day with events that encourage screenings, educate service members and promote good mental and physical health. Since 2006, more than 250,000 screenings have been completed online at www.MilitaryMentalHealth.org.