Why October Is a Time to Check InWith Yourself by Shaquana Smith, LGPC
October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, and mental health deserves the same attention and care that we give to our physical health. Just as we schedule annual physicals, monitor our blood pressure, or get routine screenings, checking in with our emotional well-being can help us recognize when something may need attention.
Why Mental Health Screening Matters
A mental health screening is a brief assessment that can help identify symptoms that may
deserve further attention. Screening is not the same as receiving a diagnosis. Instead, it can be an important first step in understanding what you are experiencing and determining whether additional support may be helpful.
You don't have to wait until you are in crisis to seek help.
Sometimes, the earliest signs that something is changing can be subtle. You may notice that
you're constantly exhausted, increasingly isolated, struggling to enjoy things you once loved, or having difficulty keeping up with responsibilities.
A screening can provide an opportunity to pause and ask:
"How am I really doing?"
You Don't Have to Have a Reason to Check In
One of the biggest misconceptions about mental health is that you need to be experiencing a
severe crisis before you deserve support.
You don't.
Therapy and mental health services can also help people who are navigating:
● Major life transitions
● Relationship difficulties
● Grief and loss
● Work or academic stress
● Anxiety and excessive worry
● Low self-esteem
● Burnout
● Family conflict
● Difficulty setting boundaries
● Changes in motivation or mood
Sometimes, simply having a safe and supportive space to talk can help you better understand
what you're experiencing.
Mental Health Is Part of Overall Health
How Can You Participate This October?
Schedule a mental health screening; Start a conversation; Pay attention to changes: Notice
patterns in your mood, sleep, energy, appetite, concentration, and behavior; Prioritize your
well-being: Make time for sleep, movement, meaningful relationships, relaxation, enjoyable
activities, and healthy coping strategies; Reach out for professional support.
A therapist or other qualified professional can help you explore what you're experiencing and
identify appropriate next steps.
-Shaquana Smith
Comments