You may still be going to work, taking care of your family, and getting through your day—but feel exhausted, disconnected, or unlike yourself. Those changes deserve attention.
October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, a reminder to check in with your emotional health and seek support when something feels different. The American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists includes this observance in its October awareness calendar.
At Salado Creek Mental Health in San Antonio, Texas, we provide psychiatric evaluations and personalized depression care, with in-person appointments and telehealth options for patients throughout Texas.
What Is Depression Screening?
Depression screening is a brief set of questions that helps identify symptoms that may need further evaluation. It can help start a conversation about changes in mood, sleep, energy, and daily functioning.
A screening result alone does not establish a diagnosis. Your provider considers your symptoms, health history, and other possible explanations before recommending treatment.
You do not need to know whether you have depression before making an appointment. Understanding what you are experiencing is part of the evaluation.
What Are Common Signs of Depression?
Depression can affect how you feel, think, and manage everyday activities. Signs may include:
- Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.
- Losing interest in activities you usually enjoy.
- Low energy or unusual fatigue.
- Sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping.
- Changes in appetite or weight.
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
- Irritability, guilt, or feelings of worthlessness.
Major depression typically involves depressed mood or loss of interest, along with other symptoms, most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, with interference in daily life. However, you can seek help sooner—especially when symptoms are distressing or affecting your ability to function.
Can I Have Depression If I Am Still Working?
Yes. Continuing to work or fulfill responsibilities does not rule out depression. An evaluation looks at your symptoms and their impact, including the effort it takes to get through the day.
You might notice that you have little energy left for relationships, hobbies, or yourself. You do not have to wait until you can no longer manage your responsibilities to ask for support.
What Happens After a Positive Depression Screen?
A positive screen is a reason to explore your symptoms more closely. A psychiatric evaluation may include discussion of:
- When symptoms began and how they affect your life.
- Your medical history and current medications.
- Previous mental health treatment.
- Sleep, substance use, and recent stressors.
- Any history of unusually elevated mood or increased energy.
- Safety concerns and available support.
Medical conditions, medications, and other mental health conditions can influence depressive symptoms. This broader assessment helps guide an appropriate care plan.
What If Depression Treatment Has Not Helped?
If you have tried treatment and still feel depressed, it is reasonable to ask for a reassessment. Depression treatment may involve psychotherapy, medication, or both. Your provider can review your response and discuss next steps.
Salado Creek Mental Health also offers evaluation for hard-to-treat depression and Spravato® treatment. Ask our team about eligibility and evening treatment availability.
Where Can I Take an Online Depression Screening?
Mental Health America offers a free online depression screening. You can bring your results to an appointment to help guide the conversation. Online screening is a starting point, rather than a substitute for a clinical evaluation.
Depression Care in San Antonio and Across Texas
At Salado Creek Mental Health, we want you to feel heard and involved in your care. Whether you are seeking help for the first time or looking for a different approach, we can discuss your concerns and work with you on a personalized plan.
Take the next step this October. Call or text Salado Creek Mental Health at 210-405-3008 to schedule an appointment or ask about our services.
In-person care is available in San Antonio, with telehealth options throughout Texas.
This article provides general education and does not replace an individual medical evaluation. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
