SCREENINGS FOR DEPRESSION THURSDAY

A free, depression screening will be held from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday at the Osage Community Centre in Cape Girardeau.

The Depressive and Manic Depressive Association of Southeast Missouri says between 17 million and 20 million Americans annually develop some form of depression, a treatable illness that can cause disability and loss of work productivity. It also can affect family and social relationships.

Claire Lafoon Watson, director of education for the Community Counseling Center in Cape Girardeau, said the screening is a good first step for people with symptoms of depression.

Common symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness, loss of pleasure in usual activities, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulties with thinking and concentrating, loss of energy, and feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, guilt or suicide.

"The most important thing people need to know is depression is an illness and, therefore, certainly is not a personal fault or weakness," Watson said.

"There is no shame in having the illness or in getting treatment for the illness," she said. "In fact, the vast majority who seek treatment get better, but the first step of seeking treatment is important."

During the screenings, participants can take a written self-test, sit in on an educational presentation about depression and speak with a mental health professional.

Referral information will be provided.

The screenings will be at the Osage Centre 1625 N. Kingshighway. No appointment is necessary.

For information, call the Community Counseling Center at 334-1100 or go to the National Mental Illness Screening Project Web site at www.nmisp.org.