October 4th is National Depression Screening Day and the Calgary Counselling Centre is providing a free online screening test to detect the presence or absence of depressive symptoms.
The test does not offer a diagnosis but it does offer a referral for further evaluation.
Part of the objective of NDSD is to also raise awareness about depression.
Depression can be serious, which is why a Calgary mother is sharing her story about her son.
Six years ago Nancy Gant's son Justin was just 20 when he died by suicide.
“To this day, when someone asks me how many kids I have, I will say, well two, sadly I lost one to suicide,” said Gant.
Since that time Gant has learned everything she can about suicide and helps counsel others who have lost someone.
She is also trying to help break the silence that surrounds mental illnesses like depression.
“If I can help anyone discussing it with their significant other, their child, their friends that they’re noticing something, don't be afraid to talk and listen,” said Gant.
Symptoms of Depression are persistent and include:
- Feelings of sadness, anxiousness, hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in ordinary activities
- Decreased energy, fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Restlessness or irritability
- Inability to sleep or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite or weight (up or down)
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Thoughts of death or suicide
To take the test, visit the Calgary Counselling Centre website.
If you have lost someone to suicide, the CMHA is hosting a Survivors of Suicide Day on November 17th at the Calgary Zoo.
To register, visit the Calgary Mental Health Association website.
