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Anxiety disorder screenings at Bernhard Center

April 1, 2004

KALAMAZOO--An education and screening day is in the works at Western Michigan University to shed light on the widespread problem of anxiety.

WMU's School of Social Work, Counseling and Testing Center and Sindecuse Health Center are teaming up to offer the screening and educational program on Wednesday, April 7.

The event is being held as part of National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day to help people learn about anxiety disorders as well as their symptoms and effective treatments. The program and screening are free and will be offered in two sessions: noon to 1 p.m. in the Faculty Dining Room in the cafeteria of the Bernhard Center and 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Room 215 of the Bernhard Center.

Anxiety disorders are fairly common and afflict many famous people. Symptoms include constant worrying, fear of social situations, anticipation of panic attacks, feeling sad or "blue," trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and headaches for no apparent reason.

Every year, more than 38 million Americans suffer from anxiety and depressive disorders, affecting people of all races, ages and economic backgrounds. Such celebrities as Naomi Judd, Donny Osmond, Marc Somers and Kim Bassinger have suffered from the problem, but have experienced the tremendous benefits of effective treatment. The help they received has prompted them to speak out about their illnesses in hopes of helping fellow sufferers.

Unfortunately, many people don't seek help. Sometimes, symptoms of anxiety and depression can be mistaken for another illness and go undiagnosed. People might also be ashamed or afraid to seek professional help, and others simply lack information about anxiety and depressive disorders. National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day was established to help people get the answers and information they need.

"As a person who suffered enormously from anxiety and depression, I want to share with people that life can be better," says Mary Guardino, founder of the nationwide program. "Treatment works."

For more information or to register, call John P. Mellein, WMU instructor of social work, at (269) 387-3193.

Media contact: Mark Schwerin, 269 387-8400, mark.schwerin@wmich.edu

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