Oct. 6 is screening day for depression

Dear Annie: I am a former professional football player. During my career as a punter, I enjoyed stints on the Oilers, Lions and Ravens and led the NFL in the yards-per-punt average three times. I was even selected to play in the 1994 Pro Bowl. Despite my success on the field, life off the field was more challenging. Prior to the 1997 season, after nine years in the NFL, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder, or manic depression, is an illness in which people alternate between feeling very good (“highs” or mania) and very bad (“lows” or depression).

A year after my diagnosis, I left the NFL. Now, nearly 15 years later, I’ve learned to respect my illness and take it seriously. But getting help is key.

While my story has a happy ending, I know the majority of those living with bipolar disorder and depression are not getting the help they need. Oct. 6, 2011, is National Depression Screening Day. On this date, thousands of community organizations, colleges and military installations will host screening events for depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder. At these screenings, one can take an anonymous assessment and receive information about local resources. I encourage anyone who thinks they or someone they know might need help to go to www.Help YourselfHelpOthers.org to find a screening event or take an online screening.

These mood disorders are not weaknesses or character flaws, but real illnesses that can be successfully treated. Sincerely – Greg Montgomery Jr.

Dear Greg: More than 20 million American adults suffer from depression or bipolar disorder, but many do not get the help they need because of the stigma and misinformation associated with mental illness. The screenings online are completely confidential and can be enormously helpful. Thank you for letting us spread the word.