During any given year approximately 1 out of every 4 Americans suffers from some kind of mental illness and about 6% of Americans have severe mental illness. Mental illness includes depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autisim, borderline personality disorders, attention defecit disorders, Alzheimers, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, phobias and more. While the United States Department of Health and Human Services recommends that mental health screening be discussed with your health care provider, the exact frequency of this discussion and method for evaluation are not specified.

In the United States, major depression is the leading cause of disability in people between the ages of 15 and 44. The United States Preventive Services Task Force now recommends screening for depression in adults and children ages 12-18, assuming there are systems in place to appropriately manage the condition. There are numerous standardized screening tests available. However, simply asking a person if in the prior 2 weeks they have had feelings of sadness or hopelessness as well as loss of interest and pleasure can reveal depression. If you feel you are depressed or you are suffering from any mental health problems, your healthcare provider can help steer you to the appropriate help and treatment. Sometimes these issues can be difficult to discuss, but asking for and getting help early may prevent deterioration, suicide, family problems, job loss, or other complications. Symptoms of depression include:

• Sadness
• Hopelessness
• Worthlessness
• Helplessness
• Anxiety
• Emptiness
• Pessimism
• Loss of pleasure
• Excessive sleeping
• Early awakening
• Loss of apetite
• Overeating
• Suicide thoughts
• Suicide attempts
• Feelings of guilt
• Fatigue
• Trouble concentrating
• Trouble with decision making
• Irritability
• Restlessness

Another major mental health concern is Alzheimer's, particularly because of the aging population. The "10 warning signs of Alzheimer's" is a helpful list (seen here: http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_symptoms_of_alzheimers.asp).

For a list of signs and symptoms of mental health disorders the National Institute of Mental Health is an excellent resource.