Mental Health – It’s Everyone’s Concern

by Linda Schoene
For the past 15 years, National Depression Screening Day has brought attention to this serious mental health issue. Over time more attention, awareness and discussion of depression and other mental health disorders has taken place. While this openness is a step in the right direction, more must be done in the form of screening, availability of services and an acceptance of those suffering with mental health disorders. Many Americans suffer a variety of mental health disorders and too many go undiagnosed and untreated.

This year National Depression Screening Day is Thursday, October 6. Several Houston facilities are serving as screening sites. In addition to providing screening, these sites will offer education about depression and bipolar disorders and provide links for those in need of treatment. Sites include:

Houston Community College at 5601 West Loop South
The Wellness Center at 7731 Southwest Freeway
West Oaks Hospital at 5600 Hornwood

For more information, visit www.mentalhealthscreening.org or www.mhahouston.org.

The ELCA encourages congregations to recognize the importance of mental health through education as well as prayers for those who struggle with mental disorders and, very often, for whom the stigma still remains. In the wake of Katrina, the number of individuals suffering from depression and post traumatic stress syndrome will likely increase, both for the victims and for those who were front line responders. Visit the above websites to learn about how to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression. Depression and other disorders can be effectively treated with therapy - sometimes with medication, but always with compassion, sensitivity and a willingness to be a listening ear and a listening heart.

Last updated: 2005-10-03