KATHY MITCHELL AND MARCY SUGAR \ Annie's Mailbox Screening helped her deal with depression

Dear Annie: In 1996, I transferred schools to be closer to my boyfriend in Michigan. When I arrived, I was in emotional turmoil. Then, my grandmother was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Being away from home and dealing with work, school and my grandmother's illness became a lot more than I could handle. When my grandmother died, I sank into a deep depression. My boyfriend didn't understand what was going on, and I felt worthless.
I noticed a flyer that was posted all over campus about National Depression Screening Day, and I went. My depression was diagnosed, and I began counseling right away. Later, I was put on a minimal dose of an anti-depressant, and soon after, my life was much more manageable. I was pleasant to be around, and my depression was something I could deal with, not something that was dealing with me.
I'm so thankful the screening was available. I now help administer and score the screens and feel a great sense of pride in being able to tell people that this test was quite beneficial in making me who I am today. Please remind your readers about this wonderful service. Angela in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Dear Angela: Thank you for providing an opportunity once again to mention National Depression Screening Day, which will take place on Thursday, Oct. 7.
All screenings are free and confidential. You will be invited to fill out a one-page questionnaire assessing the likelihood that you are suffering from depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder. You also will have the opportunity to hear an educational presentation, receive pamphlets and brochures, and follow up privately with a mental health professional if necessary.
Screenings will be held across the country at approximately 7,000 screening sites, including hospitals, mental health clinics, colleges and primary care offices. To find a screening site, our readers can call (800) 437-1200 or visit www.MentalHealthScreening.org. The lines are open right now, so please call today if you or someone you love is suffering from depression.
Dear Annie: I am 51, and my fiance is 49. We are planning a wedding for next June. This is my first wedding and his second, and frankly, I think we are too old for the white-gown-and-veil routine.
We both come from large families and want to include everyone. Would it be OK to have a small ceremony in church and then a large reception? Linda in New York
Dear Linda: It is perfectly fine to have a small church wedding, followed by a large reception, but please don't let your age determine how many people you invite. This is your first time as a bride. You aren't obligated to wear a white gown and veil, but if you want the ceremony to include everyone, go right ahead. It sounds lovely.
Dear Annie: I am writing in response to "Baseball Wife," who complained that she was neglected during baseball season. My husband adores college baseball and football. Rather than be a sports widow, I took matters into my own hands.
I listened attentively to his discussions on football and baseball, watched sports on TV while he was watching and, best of all, asked simple questions. Nothing strokes a man's ego more than feeling valued for his knowledge on a subject about which he is so passionate. When I finally went to my first game, I loved it.
If "Baseball Wife" makes a good-faith effort to share her husband's interests, it will pay off with a strengthened relationship and a deeper understanding of the man she married. Omaha Wife
Dear Omaha: You are a wise woman. Thanks for writing.
Creators Syndicate