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MCC Daily Tribune

National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day

National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day is observed on the first Wednesday in May. This year, it takes place on May 3. The day was first observed in 1993. Its significance is to raise awareness about the importance of people going for anxiety disorder screenings.

Anxiety screening is essential for one to find out whether they have anxiety disorders and learn how to treat or manage such conditions. Several online tests screen for anxiety, although it’s best to see a doctor for a more detailed examination. The doctor will perform a physical exam, and ask about your symptoms. They will also recommend a blood test, which helps determine whether another condition may be causing your symptoms.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL ANXIETY DISORDERS SCREENING DAY

  1. Read books about anxiety disorders
    There are numerous books with practical tips on positive ways of managing anxiety and related disorders. Some examples include” The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook (4th Edition)” by E.J. Bourne and “Mind over Mood” by D. Greenberger and C. Pedesky. These resources can help you and your loved ones achieve mental wellness.

  2. Practice relaxation techniques
    Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises are fantastic for reducing stress and managing anxiety. Take a few moments on this holiday to practice some of them. You could also opt for other treatments, such as aromatherapy, massage, mindfulness meditation, shiatsu, and tai chi.

  3. Have conversations about anxiety and wellness
    As much as mental wellness is widely talked about today, it’s still a subject with a stigma attached to it. Talking with your friends and family about anxiety disorders helps to demystify the topic.

5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ANXIETY

  1. Anxiety can be a good thing
    Mild anxiety can keep you safe by helping you stay alert to your surroundings.

  2. It’s a normal response to stressful events
    Most people view anxiety negatively but it’s only a problem when we react to it in ways that are counterproductive to a rich and meaningful life.

  3. Exercise helps decrease symptoms
    Even a 30-minute run or a quick walk around the block are excellent and quick mood boosters.

  4. Anxiety can cause memory problems
    People who suffer from anxiety often struggle with staying in the present moment, which often makes them forgetful.

  5. Anxiety comes with physical symptoms
    It has serious effects on one’s physical state by causing nausea, weakness, shortness of breath, hot flashes, rapid heart rate, or dizziness.

WHY NATIONAL ANXIETY DISORDERS SCREENING DAY IS IMPORTANT

  1. It raises awareness
    The world still needs to have more conversations about mental wellness. National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day is a perfect driver for this.

  2. We learn about advances in treatment
    Anxiety disorders are challenging to handle. New treatment options go a long way in improving the quality of life of those dealing with anxiety.

  3. It shows love to those with anxiety
    Since mental health challenges are invisible, they are often dismissed as not important. This holiday gives a chance to extend compassion to people suffering from anxiety.

National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day - National Today

Sarah Benedict
MCC Wellness Council
05/03/2023