National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day 2023: National Screening for Anxiety Disorders Day is celebrated on the first Wednesday of May. This year, it occurs on May 3. The first observance occurred in 1993. Its significance is to increase awareness of the significance of anxiety disorder examinations.
Anxiety screening is essential for determining the presence of anxiety disorders and learning how to treat or manage them. Several online anxiety screening assessments are available, but a doctor should be consulted for a more thorough evaluation. The physician will conduct a physical examination and inquire about your symptoms. In addition, they will recommend a blood test to determine whether your symptoms are caused by another condition.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL ANXIETY DISORDERS SCREENING DAY
Latin and Greek physicians and philosophers distinguished anxiety from other negative states and recognised it as a medical disorder. Ancient Epicurean and Stoic philosophers proposed techniques for achieving an anxiety-free state of mind that closely resemble contemporary cognitive psychology.
Between classical antiquity and the late 19th century, there was a lengthy period in which anxiety was not recognised as a distinct illness. However, individuals continued to report conventional anxiety disorders, albeit under different names.
Boissier de Sauvages published a nosology in the 18th century that recognised panic attacks and generalised anxiety disorder as ‘panophobias.’ In the later 19th century, the term ‘neurasthenia’ was coined to characterise a medical condition characterised by fatigue, headache, and irritability. These anxiety symptoms were an integral part of these novel disease concepts.
In India, numerous ayurvedic herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to calm the psyche and improve the mood. Brahmi, Gotu kola, and ashwagandha were the most prevalent ones.
Before medical advancements, ancient treatments included the use of various herbs and balms (during the Middle Ages), hydropathy (subjecting the body to extreme temperatures), bathing in extremely frigid streams and rivers, health spas, and leech-based bloodletting. However, as psychoanalysis acquired popularity and Freud rose to prominence, people began to embrace therapy as a treatment for anxiety disorders.
Although anxiety disorders have only recently been officially recognised, they have existed throughout history. Numerous historically influential figures, such as Johnny Depp, Adele, Selena Gomez, Abraham Lincoln, and Winston Churchill, have reported having anxiety disorders and panic attacks.
World Press Freedom Day 2023: Wishes, quotes, messages to share
Polish National Flag Day 2023: Date, History, Activities and Facts
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL ANXIETY DISORDERS SCREENING DAY
Read literature on anxiety disorders
There are numerous publications that provide practical advice for managing anxiety and related disorders in a constructive manner. “The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook (4th Edition)” by E.J. Bourne and “Mind over Mood” by D. Greenberger and C. Pedesky are two examples. These resources can facilitate mental health for you and your loved ones.
Practise relaxation techniques
Breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques are excellent for reducing stress and managing anxiety. Take some time during this holiday to practise them. In addition to aromatherapy, massage, mindfulness meditation, shiatsu, and tai chi, you could also choose from additional remedies such as tai chi, shiatsu, and massage.
Engage in discussions about anxiety and health
Even though mental health is a topic that is extensively discussed today, there is still a stigma associated with it. Friends and family conversations about anxiety disorders help to elucidate the topic.
National Life Insurance Day 2023: Date, History, Activities and Facts
5 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ANXIETY
Anxiety can be beneficial.
Mild anxiety can protect you by enhancing your awareness of your surroundings.
It’s a normal reaction to stressful situations.
The majority of people view anxiety negatively, but it only becomes a problem when we respond to it in ways that are detrimental to living a full and meaningful life.
Physical activity reduces symptoms
Even a thirty-minute run or a short stroll around the block are excellent and speedy mood boosters.
It can lead to memory issues.
Anxiety sufferers frequently struggle to remain in the present, resulting in frequent forgetfulness.
Anxiety is accompanied by physical symptoms.
It causes nausea, weakness, shortness of breath, hot flashes, rapid pulse rate, and dizziness, among other serious physical effects.
WHY THIS DAY IS IMPORTANT
It elevates consciousness
The world must continue to have more discussions about mental health. National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day serves as the ideal impetus for this.
We are informed of advancements in treatment
Anxiety disorders are difficult to treat. New treatment options significantly enhance the quality of life for those with anxiety.
It demonstrates affection for the anxious.
Due to the invisibility of mental health issues, they are frequently disregarded as unimportant. This holiday is an opportunity to show compassion to those who suffer from anxiety.
NATIONAL ANXIETY DISORDERS SCREENING DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 4 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | May 3 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | May 1 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | May 7 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | May 6 | Wednesday |
