Community events will be held October 8th, 2009.
Abbotsford will be having 2 sites available.

Clearbrook Library 32320 George Ferguson Way
October 8th - 12pm until 4pm.

University of Fraser Valley - 33844 King Rd.
October 8th - time TBA watch for the flyers.
Speakers also TBA in October newsletter.

Seniors site will be 7 Oaks Alliance Church on
October 8th from 1pm - 4:30 pm.

What actually happens at an education and screening site?

First, and most importantly, all screenings are completely free and totally anonymous. You do not have to sign your name anywhere and volunteers and clinicians involved in the event must sign an agreement respecting the confidentiality and anonymity of all participants.

The screening is an opportunity to learn more about mood and anxiety disorders, complete a brief screening questionnaire (optional), and speak one-on-one with a clinician. Some sites also offer screens to check your drinking patterns.

The event is a high-profile awareness campaign that seeks to educate the public about the types and symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders and related conditions; the impact on individuals, families, workplaces and communities and the ability to be screened for the illness similar to other physical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

Most importantly, the event highlights successes with recovery and the availability of various treatment options as well as community resources and supports. The intent is to educate, not diagnose.

In the US and the rest of Canada, the event is known as National Depression Screening Day or NDSD.has been coordinating efforts in Canada since 1995. NDSD is by far the most popular campaign but Screening for Mental Health Inc. also organizes screening days for alcoholism and eating disorders. More than half a million people have been screened over the past decade, with more than 200,000 having sought professional help as a direct result of a screening.