How To Recognize The Signs And Symptoms Of Anxiety And Depressive Illnesses

Each year more than 40 million
Americans will suffer from an anxiety disorder and more than
19 million Americans will suffer with a depressive illness.
The most common signs of anxiety and depression include
feelings of being down or blue, phobias, uncontrollable
worrying, poor concentration, loss of pleasure, sleeping
problems, panic attacks, unexplainable aches, pains or
headaches, obsessions, rituals and ongoing feelings of
nervousness or tension.



"Some individuals have difficulty sorting through emotional
and physical symptoms. It is not uncommon for individuals to
rush to an emergency room with symptoms of a heart attack
only to be told they are suffering from anxiety," says Mary
Guardino, executive director of Freedom From Fear, a
national nonprofit mental illness advocacy organization who
has organized this event since 1994.



To bring awareness to the signs and symptoms of anxiety and
depressive illnesses and to assist individuals in seeking
help from a healthcare provider, 13 national health
organizations have organized National Anxiety and Depressive
Awareness Week, May 4 - 10, 2008.



Individuals can screen themselves on
freedomfromfear to learn if they may be
suffering from an anxiety or depressive illness. They can
also call 1-888-442-2022. The screening site on the web and
the toll-free number will offer referrals for a free
screening from mental health professionals throughout the
United States.



"Anxiety and depression cost our economy billions of dollars
each year, but what is more important is the cost of human
suffering, which is immeasurable. There are effective
treatments that can alleviate unnecessary suffering," says
Guardino.

Freedom From Fear