An annual event coming to Suffolk for the first time on April 22 will explore the links between depression and heart disease.

Depression and Heart Disease, as the event is called, at Sentara Obici Hospital on Godwin Boulevard from 7 to 8 p.m., will feature Eastern Virginia Medical School psychiatrist David R. Spiegel as a guest speaker.

Rosalyn Francis, health care coordinator for Hearts In Action, a nonprofit organizing the event, said it would be an opportunity for citizens to learn more about an important health issue concerning millions of Americans.

“It’s to raise awareness about education, screening and treatment,” she said. “It’s open to the public and it’s free.”

But participants will be asked to make a donation to Hearts in Action. “If anyone can donate to our cause, we would greatly appreciate it,” Francis said. “Donations would include giving to other charitable organizations doing the same thing we are doing.”

Event participants will have an opportunity to have their questions answered by Spiegel following his address, Francis said.

“He’ll be taking questions in reference to depression and heart disease,” she said.

The first event was held in 2011, and the venue until this year has been Central Library in Virginia Beach, Francis said.

“We try to cater to the whole Tidewater area,” she said. “We get maybe 25 people who come to these events.

“Dr. Spiegel is very energetic. He doesn’t just get up there and lecture; he gets the audience involved, and when they leave, they’re really inspired and have learned a lot about how depression and heart disease relate to each other.

“He’s very enthusiastic, and he gets his point across.”

RSVP by calling 200-9875 or email support@virginiaheartsinaction.org.