What do Barbara Streisand, Donny Osmond, Carly Simon, and 17 million Americans have in common? They have all suffered from an anxiety disorder, one of America’s most common mental illnesses.

Individuals who suffer from an anxiety disorder experience a variety of symptoms that can include spontaneous panic attacks, endlessly checking and rechecking their actions, persistent and uncontrollable worry, and anxiety in social situations. Anxiety disorders include: Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Phobia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). When left untreated, anxiety disorders often lead to substance abuse, depression, and even suicide. To help individuals learn about anxiety disorders, symptoms and effective treatments, a nationwide screening day will occur on Wednesday, May 3. Participants will have an opportunity to view an educational video, complete a confidential screening questionnaire, talk with a mental health professional about the screening results, and obtain information about various anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders are treatable conditions. The sooner individuals receive treatment, the more quickly symptoms are eased. If you recognize the following symptoms in yourself or a loved one, visiting a National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day site may be helpful.

·        Constantly worrying and difficulty controlling it

·        Difficulty sleeping

·        Physical symptoms such as a fast heart rate, chills and/or sweating, nausea, headaches, shakiness, and breathing difficulties unrelated to other known health conditions

·        Difficulty concentrating

·        Anxiety or panic attacks; intense anxiety in social situations

·        Phobias

·        Obsessive thoughts or repetitive, compulsive rituals  

You may have symptoms not listed here. Additionally, the symptoms listed here may be a sign of another problem. That’s why Screening Day is a good “first step” if you're not sure where to begin seeking help. If the Screening Day is not an option, talk to your family doctor or other health provider if you are having these symptoms. Screening locations in the St. Louis area include:

• St. Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute – Call 314-534-0200.

• BJC North County Recovery Center – Call 314-747-9355.

• BJC South County Recovery Center – Call 314-747-9355.

• Lutheran Family & Children’s Services – Call 314-787-5100.

To locate other screening sites in the St. Louis area or anywhere in the country, visit www.freedomfromfear.org/refroom.asp or call 718-351-1717.  

Education Department
Mental Health Association of Greater St. Louis
314-773-1399
www.mhagstl.org

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