Free depression screening is being offered through a partnership between Jewish Family Services and the Town of West Hartford’s Human and Leisure Services.

West Hartford Town Hall. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Submitted by Cathy Bergstrom, Jewish Family Services

National Depression Screening Day is Oct. 8. The Town of West Hartford Department of Human and Leisure Services and Jewish Family Services are partnering to provide free screenings between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Visit the West Hartford Town Hall at 50 S. Main St. There will be a table on the main floor with resource materials and signs to direct you to the third floor, Room 306, for the screenings.

A typical screening session may last up to 30 minutes. Participants will answer ten questions and their responses will be reviewed with them by a clinician on-site. After completing a screening, those whose score indicates depression will receive referral information for further evaluation and treatment if needed.

“This is an opportunity for people who are concerned about their mood fluctuation to have a mental health professional determine if further evaluation is recommended,” explained Penny Yellen, LCSW. “We will provide a self-assessment, and then participants can meet with the professional to discuss if further steps would be helpful.”

This screening is free and open to the public. Helen Rubino-Turco, Director of Human and Leisure Services said, “Depression is fairly common, and can have a huge impact on the quality of life of the person affected as well as the lives of that person’s family or close friends.  Through this partnership with Jewish Family Services, we hope to provide a valuable first step in reaching depressed people and steering them toward improved health and well-being.”

“It’s great to be working with the Town of West Hartford to bring this important service to the community,” said Anne Danaher, JFS Executive Director.

JFS focuses on three core areas: Counseling, Education, and Community Support, and utilizes a variety of counseling treatment approaches and can help clients address a wide range of issues. Visit www.jfshartford.org to learn more about Jewish Family Services or West Hartford Human Services at www.westhartfordct.gov/humanservices.