Because the goal of the screening was to educate participants, it was free and open to the general public as well as Marywood faculty, staff, and students. The event was centered on teaching visitors about the signs of depression, manic depression, and suicidal thoughts and actions. It also provided people with an opportunity to seek help on or off campus if they chose.

According to a survey conducted in 2010 by the American College Health Association, 44 percent of college students have felt hopeless, 28 percent reported feeling depressed to the point that it was difficult to function, and 46 percent felt overwhelmed and anxious.

The Depression Screening provides people who may need help, an outlet to receive support.

“It provides an opportunity for the students of Marywood and even the community for a safe and confidential place that they can discuss things they don’t have anywhere else to talk about or haven’t felt safe discussing,” said Adam Assoian, first-year clinical psychology doctoral student.

The screening was conducted completely anonymously.

“A community member or student comes in and we give them a form of consent along with the screening questionnaire,” said Jessica Dougan, first-year clinical psychology doctoral student. “Once they are done, a graduate student will sit with them and go over the participants answers to the questionnaire and then discuss the likelihood of having depression, anxiety, or mood disorder. And if needed we will refer them here or elsewhere,” said Dougan.