As part of National Depression Screening Day, Kent State’s Psychological Services will offer free depression screenings Oct. 5.

The screenings will take place on the second floor of the Student Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year marks Kent State’s 23rd annual depression screening.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. Depression is caused by genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors.

“Depression screenings are open to anyone who wants to learn more about mental health,” said John Schell, a senior psychologist for University Health Services. “They can take a screening to better understand how they’re currently doing. The screening assesses bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder also.”

The screening involves a questionnaire, which checks for depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Participants can speak with a clinician to review their results or be referred to find help.

“National Depression Screening Day is a screening event, not a diagnostic,” Schell said. “If someone scores high in a particular area and may be struggling, they can be referred for further assessment and could be linked to treatment services if appropriate.”

Students, faculty, staff and Kent community members are welcome to attend the screening.

The regional campuses will also offer the service.

Kent State Stark will offer screenings at the lower level of the Herbert W. Hoover Foundation Counseling Center Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kent State Trumbull will hold screenings at the Student Services Building in the lounge adjacent to Room 131B Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Stark and Trumbull screenings are co-sponsored by Counseling Services.

The College of Podiatric Medicine will provide screenings Oct. 9, sponsored by Counseling and Wellness Services.

Information on mental health issues is available for those seeking help for themselves or others. Additional information can be found here.

For those who cannot attend in-person screenings, University Health Services will offer access to online screenings.

Hannah Sheridan is the women’s and gender issues reporter. Contact her at [email protected].