WhiteCounty MedicalCenter and the Dr. Robert E. Elliott Foundation are partnering to offer free, anonymous depression screenings for National Depression Screening Day on October 11 at WCMC, right off the main lobby area, from Noon to 4 p.m. The screenings are being done as part of Mental Illness Awareness Week and include written evaluations, access to a licensed professional counselor and referrals.
National Depression Screening Day is held annually to create awareness for depression, manic-depression and anxiety and to educate the public about the symptoms and effective treatments. The National Depression Screening Project considers clinical depression as a serious illness; therefore, free screenings are held each year, as is done with screenings for heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.
Over 19 million Americans develop some form of depression each year and are among the most common mental illnesses in the United States, as well as the most treatable. Statistics show that over 80 percent of those suffering can be treated successfully and return to a higher quality of life.
“Our partnership with White County MedicalCenter is a natural fit, and we appreciate the hospital’s support in raising awareness about depression,” said Alana Pinchback, Executive Director of the Dr. Robert Elliott Foundation. “Depression is a disease, not a weakness. People who show signs of depression need to know that help is available for them. We also encourage family members of those possibly experiencing depression to join them during the screening process. Depression affects family members and friends, too, and this is a way to learn more about the illness and the best ways to deal with it.”
For more information about the Dr. Robert E. Elliott Foundation and the services it provides, and for questions about National Depression Screening Day, please call (501) 278-4357.
