Worry, anger and stress are normal, appropriate and even necessary during life's difficult moments. "When negative feelings prevent you from doing your daily activities or interacting with friends and loved ones, it might be time to seek help," says Tyler Rickers, MD, UW-Health Psychiatrist and hospitalist with Meriter’s Adult Psychiatric program. "The good news is that most people with depression get better when they receive treatment either by therapy, anti-depressant medication, or both," says Dr. Rickers.

Meriter Hospital is currently scheduling free depression screening appointments on National Depression Screening Day Thursday, October 8, 2009, from Noon to 5 p.m. in the Meriter Women’s Health Education Center, located in the Atrium at the lobby level. To schedule an appointment, please call (608) 417-8446. Participants are asked to complete a brief, written questionnaire, will learn about the symptoms of depression, and how to help a friend or family member who may be at risk, and talk to a health care professional about any concerns they may have. Dr. Rickers will also provide a free discussion on depression from 5 to 6 p.m.

Some facts about depression:

• Depressive disorders affect approximately 18.8 million American adults or about 10% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year.

• Depression can occur to anyone, at any age, and to people of any race or ethnic group. Depression is never a "normal" part of life, no matter what the age, gender or health situation.

• Trauma, loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, or any stressful situation may trigger a depressive episode. Subsequent depressive episodes may occur with or without an obvious trigger.

• Mental disorders are the leading cause of disability (lost years of productive life) in North American, Europe and increasingly in the world. With early recognition, intervention, and support, most people can overcome clinical depression and become productive and full-functioning employees again.

For more information on National Depression Screening Day, call Meriter Hospital at 608-417-8446 or visit www.MentalHealthScreening.org.