Economic Downturn Raises Anxiety and Depress...( Seek Free Screening During National A...),Health

Seek Free Screening During National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week, May 3-9, 2009

NEW YORK, April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Each year more than 40 million Americans will suffer from an anxiety disorder and more than 20 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.

"Foreclosures, stock market losses, lost jobs and economic uncertainty have had a dramatic impact on our nation's psyche," says Mary Guardino, executive director of Freedom From Fear, a national nonprofit mental illness advocacy organization and the organizer of National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week. "It is not uncommon, during these difficult economic times, to see an increase in anxiety and depression. That's why it is so important to get screened and get help."

To bring awareness to the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depressive illnesses and to assist individuals in seeking help from a healthcare provider, Freedom From Fear has partnered with organizations throughout the United States to hold events during National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week, May 3-9, 2009.

Individuals can screen themselves on http://www.freedomfromfear.org 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,
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