St Jude Hospital will host a health fair aimed at providing assistance for those at risk for depression and suicide.

St Jude Hospital, in collaboration with CIBC First Caribbean International Bank, will host a one-day fair to mark World Health Day under the theme “Depression: Let’s Talk.”

The fair targets those at risk for depression and suicide with a three-fold aim: to sensitize the public on depression and how it can be prevented; to help reduce the stigma associated with the condition; and to encourage more people to seek help.

According to the World Health Organization, the risk of becoming depressed is increased by poverty, unemployment, life events such as the death of a loved one or the end of a relationship, physical illness, and problems caused by alcohol and drug use. In light of the recent increase in suicides, the health fair is given added significance.

The fair will feature presentations on depression from a psychiatrist and social worker, along with a question and answer segment, and the distribution of important reading material on the condition.

Participants will also be requested to complete a short questionnaire in an effort to identify those at risk for depression. Those who may be at risk will receive a referral for professional assistance.

The health fair will be held at the FCIB parking lot on Clarke Street in Vieux Fort, on Friday, April 7. Everyone is encouraged to attend.