October is National Depression Awareness Month, a time when many organizations focus on depression screening.

Depression screening by physicians, schools, communities, local organizations, or virtual agencies can detect early symptoms of depression, note otherwise undiagnosed mood disorders and offer helpful resources.

It’s important to note that mental health disorders don’t care about your age, ethnicity, or cultural background. Depression doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor. Depression can be found in every country around the world. And anyone can develop depression, from young children to adults. However, depression is more common among people who:

· Have a family history of mental illness.
· Have another mental health condition like anxiety.
· Struggle with a substance use disorder.
· Recently experienced a stressful life change or traumatic event.

Children and adults who struggle with depression may experience the following symptoms in mild, moderate, or severe forms.

· 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
· Thoughts of death or suicide
· Feelings of guilt, restlessness, hopelessness, worthlessness or fear
· Suicidal thoughts
For an anonymous screening, check out organizations like Mental Health America. You can also ask your healthcare provider or your child’s school for a free screening.

Source: Psychology Today