Unexplainable Aches and Pains may be Signs of an Anxiety or Depressive Illness
May 1, 2007
(HealthNewsDigest.com) - NEW YORK, May 1 -- Each year
more than 17 million Americans will suffer from an anxiety disorder and more
than 19 million Americans will suffer with a depressive illness. These illnesses
manifest with not only emotional symptoms, but physical symptoms as well.
Individuals often believe the cause of their discomfort and pain is an
undiagnosed physical illness. In fact, a study done by the World Health
Organization reported that 69 percent of patients with depression reported
physical symptoms as the sole reason for their visit to their primary care
doctor.
To bring awareness to the signs and symptoms of anxiety and depressive illnesses
and to assist individuals in finding help, 13 national health organizations have
organized National Anxiety and Depressive Awareness Week May 6-12, 2007.
"Anxiety and depressive illnesses are serious public health concerns. They
greatly impair the individuals that suffer with them, as well as the lives of
their family and friends," states Mary Guardino, executive director of
Freedom From Fear, a national nonprofit mental illness advocacy organization and
one of the sponsors of the event.
One of the main purposes of this awareness week is to encourage individuals to
seek treatment from a healthcare provider. The most common signs of anxiety and
depression include: feelings of being down or blue, phobias, constant
uncontrollable worrying, poor concentration, loss of pleasure, sleeping
problems, anxiety attacks, unexplainable aches, pains or headaches, obsessions,
rituals and ongoing feelings of nervousness or tension.
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 U.S.
"Anxiety and depression cost our economy billions of dollars each year.
However, the tragic cost is in human suffering which is immeasurable. These
illnesses are real medical illnesses which can be successfully treated,"
adds Guardino.
Sponsors of the National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week May 6-12, 2007
include: American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association,
Anxiety Disorders Association of America, Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy
and Research, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Employee Assistance
Professionals Association, Families for Depression Awareness, Freedom From Fear,
Mental Health America, National Women's Health Resource Center, National
Association of Psychiatric Health Systems, Obsessive Compulsive Foundation and
SPAN USA.
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