October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, which highlights the importance of mental well-being.

Everyone has struggles in life. However, if you experience any of the signs below (identified by researchers Kurt Kroenke and Robert L. Spitzer) without any relief for several weeks, you could benefit from seeking support. 

• Little interest or pleasure in doing things
• Feeling tired or having little energy
• Poor appetite or overeating
• Feeling bad about yourself – or that you are a failure or have let your family down
• Trouble concentrating on things such as reading the newspaper or watching television
• Moving or speaking so slowly that other people have noticed
• Being so fidgety or restless that you have been moving around more than usual
• Thinking of hurting yourself in some way or committing suicide

These signs, associated with depression, can be triggered by any number of things. It is normal to feel low after suffering hardship or loss. It is also normal to feel a sense of loss after a positive change in life. However, when someone feels low for longer periods of time, it can turn into or increase risk for depression. 

Be aware of risk factors in yourself and others, and encourage peers, family members, and friends to seek assistance when needed. 

The Community Counseling Program (CCP) can help screen Marines and family members for signs of depression and determine the right kind of support they need to help them feel better. 

For additional resources and information, contact the Military/Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1, texting 838255, or by visiting www.veteranscrisisline.net/.