Depression strikes 15 million Americans each year,

according to figures from the National Institute of Mental Health. Only one

in four individuals with depression, however, actually seeks

treatment even though treatment can heal 80 percent of those affected.

Warning signs of depression include:

* feelings of sadness or irritablity

* loss of interest in pleasure or activities

* change in weight or appetite

* feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless

* fatigue or loss of energy

* restlessness or decreased activity

* thoughts of death or suicide

Several of these symptoms for two weeks or more may

indicate clinical depression, a medical illness that can be effectively treated.

The screening program format includes a lecture with slides;

facts about depression; a question and answer period; a videotape;

informational materials; an anonymous self report form; a screening

with a mental health professional; and referral options.

There are three locations in Riverdale in Clayton County

participating in the Oct. 8 screenings: RiverWoods at Southern

Regional, Cassandra Floyd, 770-991-8500; Clayton Center Child

and Adolescent Services, Helen Trouth, 770-991-7420; and

Flint River Child and Adolescent Services, Helen Trouth,

770-991-7420. For a complete list of sites, phone the Mental Health

Association of Metropolitan Atlanta, 404-527-7175.

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