National Depression Screening Day was on Oct. 7 and no one went into the Student Health Services Building on campus to get a screening that day.

Over 500 colleges in the U.S. conducted written tests to screen for depression that were anonymously turned in and evaluated.

Depression affects all parts of one’s life and, in the most severe cases, may end in suicide.

According to the American College Health Association, the national suicide rate for college students has been projected at 1088 students each year.

The ACHA also reported that 9.5 percent of 16000 students surveyed had contemplated suicide and approximately 240 had made a suicide attempt.

Monitoring our own emotions and depression among our peers is important. This national awareness day should have been taken more seriously.

Fliers and posters should have been used to provide students the push they may have needed to seek help on October 7th.

With the depression rate increasing 17 percent in the last 5 years among college students, we should look out for our fellow classmates now more than ever.

The recent economic downturn has only added to the pressures that college life brings to alumni.

Now is the time to take advantage of all the things our health fees pay for.

Student Health Services offers yearlong screenings for depression much like those offered nationally.

Short-term counseling is available for people who may feel at risk of depression or are already experiencing symptoms.

It even offers a stress counseling workshop to help cope with everyday stressors.

The biggest hurdle may be admitting that one needs help.

College students like to think of themselves as independent and strong enough to deal with challenges by themselves.

However, the toughest thing a student can do regarding troubling emotions is letting go of reservations and accepting that seeking help doesn’t make him or her weaker, but instead creates support, making life more enjoyable.

So keep an eye out for your fellow students and lend an ear when you can, because you never know when you might need a friend to count on.