CAPS Hosts Free Screenings, Activities for Depression Screening Day Oct. 8

Students are invited to stop by the Union Mall from 9 a.m.-noon Oct. 8 to enjoy crafts and activities, complete a free depression screening and get a free donut.
Students are invited to stop by the Union Mall from 9 a.m.-noon Oct. 8 to enjoy crafts and activities, complete a free depression screening and get a free donut. (Aimee Morrell)

In honor of National Depression Screening Day, Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) will offer depression screenings on Thursday, Oct. 8, from 9 a.m.-noon at the Union Mall. Students are invited to stop by Thursday morning to enjoy crafts and activities, complete a screening and get a free donut. 

Part of Mental Illness Awareness Week, National Depression Screening Day raises awareness about depression while encouraging individuals to get screened. 

"It's always a good time to check in with your mental health," said Jack Rindahl, LPC, CAPS mental health clinician and outreach coordinator. "When it comes to depression, it's important to know that it's more than feeling down or the blues. It's a mood disorder, and it's not something a person can just snap out of." 

Depression is a mental health concern that can affect anyone, regardless of background or experience. Seeking support from mental health professionals can be a vital step toward recovery and improved well-being. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength—CAPS is here to support every student on their journey to better mental health. 

Individuals struggling with depression can greatly benefit from seeking treatment and support. At the U of A, CAPS mental health clinicians are dedicated to helping students who are facing depression or other mental health challenges. 

For more information about National Depression Screening Day with CAPS, visit HogSync. To contact CAPS, which includes a 24/7 mental health crisis line, call 479-575-5276.

About Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS): CAPS is committed to supporting University of Arkansas students by offering a wide range of critical mental health services such as short-term individual counseling, group counseling, 24/7 emergency mental health services, and case management. Our Care Matching Model helps create individualized care plans by matching students with the resources that best fit their needs. To ensure students have access to mental health services, most of our services are covered by the Student Health & Wellness Fee. CAPS is a department within the Division of Student Affairs. Learn more at health.uark.edu/mental-health. 

About the Division of Student Affairs: The Division of Student Affairs supports the whole student by cultivating transformative experiences and environments that promote student well-being, sense of community and success. We prioritize student access, well-being and belonging, post-graduation success, and building a strong organizational culture. 

Contacts

Aimee Morrell, assistant director of marketing and communications
Pat Walker Health Center
479-575-7369, amorrell1@uark.edu

Gustavo Samudio, marketing and communications graduate assistant
Pat Walker Health Center
479-575-7369, healthga@uark.edu