Iowans who fear their case of the blues may be depression can get theirpotential problems diagnosed for free today. Mental health care facilitiesin 30 locations statewide are offering free depression screenings. Oneclinical psychologist says it’s a serious condition that can be treated.Dr. Gary Szymula at Burlington Medical Center says screenings involvefilling out a questionaire, watching a videotape, then getting feedback froma professional. Dr. Szymula says it takes a mental health expert to diagnosedepression, which is different from being sad.Szymula says there are a variety of symptoms that may hint a person isclinically depressed such as decrease appetite, a decreased need for sleepor sleeping too much.Other symptoms include: a feeling of hopelessness, feelings of guilt ormaking suicide plans. Today’s screenings are confidential & may be keptanonymous. To find the nearest free screening location, call 800-573-4433 or800-969-NMHA.
