Mental illness is something most of us like to think we are immune to. However, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, mental illness is more prevalent than cancer, diabetes or heart disease.
Most sources estimate 22 to 28 percent of adults in the United States will suffer from some form of mental illness during their lifetime.
Anxiety disorders are the nation’s most common mental health problem, affecting more than 28 million Americans each year. Characterized by stress or underlying fears, they may drastically reduce or even eliminate the ability to function in everyday life.
Anxiety disorders can be difficult to diagnose because of the broad range of symptoms. Many people experience physical, as well as emotional and behavioral, symptoms. These may include excessive worrying, tension, restlessness, fatigue, frequent headaches and phobias.
They may also include panic attacks, muscle tension, extreme discomfort in social situations, problems with concentration, high blood pressure, persistent digestive problems and sleeplessness.
These are some of the anxiety disorders people suffer from and the disorder’s symptoms:
Specific phobia an intense fear of a single specific object or situation.
Social phobia a persistent fear of social situations and judgment by others.
Generalized anxiety disorder a chronic, constant, unrealistic worry about everyday occurrences and activities.
Panic disorder repeated attacks of escalating fear, often making the individual think he or she is suffering a heart attack. It is sometimes accompanied by agoraphobia (the fear of open places).
Obsessive/compulsive disorder recurrent, distressful, intrusive thoughts that interfere with life’s normal routines, often leading to compulsive behaviors.
Post-traumatic stress disorder a condition of terror caused by a specific traumatic event. It is often accompanied by flashbacks, detachment, guilt and sleep problems.
Anxiety disorders often are easily treatable once diagnosed. On Wednesday, May 7, Rancho Pacific Health Center in Encinitas will offer free screenings for anxiety as part of a nationwide community outreach project to help educate the public and assist those suffering from a disorder.
Kathy Wilcox, a psychologist who works at the Center, said the nature of these disorders often makes the idea of seeking help overwhelming to those in need.
“People suffering from these symptoms may need a friend or loved one to encourage and accompany them to the screening,” she said.
All screenings are free and anonymous. Interested people should call 943-1567 for information and directions.
