Carson-Tahoe Hospital offers anxiety-disorder screening

In an ongoing effort to educate the public, Carson-Tahoe Hospital's Behavior Health Services will sponsor free screenings for anxiety disorders on National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday at 1177 N. Division St., Suite 1.

The program will feature a video, educational material, screening test and a confidential meeting with a mental health professional. Anxiety disorder symptoms include constant worrying, anxiety attacks, obsessions and rituals, social anxiety, sleep difficulties, "the blues," phobias and/or poor concentration. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is encouraged to attend the free screening and consultation.

More than 19 million Americans suffer from anxiety disorders so severe that their ability to function has been impaired. A new epidemiological study indicates that almost 25 percent of the American population will suffer some type of mental illness during their lifetime. Anxiety disorders include panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms of anxiety mimic symptoms of other medical illnesses and frequently go undiagnosed.

"Anxiety is a very common problem that causes many Americans tremendous suffering," said Mary Guardino, founder of the National Anxiety Disorders Screening Program.

The main goal of the screening day is to educate people about these disorders and increase the number of people who receive treatment. It can change their lives and the lives of those they love."

Behavioral Health provides comprehensive emotional behavioral and addictive disorder treatment programs. Programs are available for addictive disorders, alcohol and substance abuse and psychiatric treatment. Adolescent behavior programs and geriatric evaluation management are also offered.

For information, call 885-4774 or access carsontahoehopsital.com.