Overwhelmed by Stress, Sadness or Unexplained Aches and Pains? Free, Anonymous Help Will Be Available on Oct. 9

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Have you been feeling consistently moody or sad? Can't relax or concentrate? Been alternating between highs and lows? Have you been troubled by unexplained aches and pains? Are you unable to eat or sleep?

If so, you may be suffering from a mental health disorder.

On Oct. 9, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., the Psychological Services Center at the University at Buffalo will offer, in conjunction with National Depression Screening Day, free, anonymous mental health screenings for a range of common emotional situations that often go undiagnosed and misunderstood, although excellent and proven treatments are available.

The center is located in 168 Park Hall on the UB North (Amherst) Campus. A parking lot is located adjacent to the building.

"If you haven't been feeling like yourself lately, you needn't be alone," says Sherilyn Thomas, Ph.D., director of the center. "Come in and we'll help you figure out what's wrong and what to do about it."

The screenings, which will be free and completely confidential, will cover such problems as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and bipolar disorder. In addition, for the first time this year, information will be provided on how to manage stress and recognize the physical symptoms that often go hand-in-hand with mental health disorders.

"Over the past 10 years we have made great strides in reducing the stigma attached to mental illness," Thomas says.

"Programs like National Depression Screening Day educate people about depressive and anxiety disorders and allow them to seek help in a non-threatening way."

As part of the program, attendees will hear an educational presentation, complete a written self-assessment and have the opportunity to talk privately with a mental health professional.

National Depression Screening Day is part of Mental Illness Awareness Week. Screenings will be held across the country at approximately 5,000 sites, including hospitals, mental health clinics, colleges and primary care offices.

For more information, call the Psychological Services Center at 645-3697 or visit the center on Oct. 9.