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New York, NY, October 6, 2009 - The New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC) will offer free depression screening and counseling at 15 locations across the city on October 8th, in recognition of National Depression Screening Day and HHC’s goal to make depression screening part of routine medical care for all patients.  The confidential screenings will be conducted by mental health professionals who will provide individual consultations, help identify symptoms of depression and make referrals to appropriate levels of treatment.   

The screenings will be available at the following HHC facilities on October 8th, during the day.  Click here to get addresses and directions or visit www.nyc.gov/hhc.

“Too many New Yorkers suffer from depression and anxiety and are not getting the care they need.  As with other illnesses, early detection of mental health disorders significantly improves the chances that an individual will receive appropriate treatment and therefore have a better quality of life.  Early detection is the first step in receiving treatment and it is our hope that New Yorkers will take advantage of this opportunity to receive screening and learn more about symptoms and treatment options,” said HHC President Alan D. Aviles.

“Depression is an illness that affects New Yorkers of all ages, from all walks of life, and too often goes unrecognized” said New York City Health Commissioner Thomas Farley. “Fortunately, treatment is effective, and I commend the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation for getting the critical message out that help is available for those who need it.”

Depression is a common yet serious medical condition, characterized by pervasive low mood; loss of interest or pleasure in nearly all activities; and significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning. Other symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, loss of energy, trouble sleeping, changes in weight, feelings of worthlessness and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.

Recognizing and treating the symptoms of depression is one of New York City’s ambitious Take Care New York 2010 initiatives.  According to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, each year, depression affects more than 400,000 (8 percent) of adult New Yorkers but only one-third of these individuals receives treatment.  Early detection and treatment can reduce suffering and improve quality of life.  Depression can worsen the course and complicate the treatment of other health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. In its most serious and tragic form, depression can lead to suicide.

The New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC), is a $6.3 billion integrated healthcare delivery system and the largest municipal healthcare organization in the country. HHC serves 1.3 million New Yorkers every year and nearly 450,000 of them who are uninsured. HHC provides medical, mental health and substance abuse services through its 11 acute care hospitals, four skilled nursing facilities, six large diagnostic and treatment centers and more than 80 community based clinics. HHC Health and Home Care also provides health services at home for New Yorkers. To learn more about HHC, visit www.nyc.gov/hhc.