By Somerset County Board of Freeholders
BRIDGEWATER – What do Oprah Winfrey, Howie Mandel, Barbara Streisand and 17 million Americans have in common? They all have suffered from an anxiety disorder, America’s most common mental illness.
These individuals can experience a variety of symptoms, including spontaneous panic attacks, endlessly checking and rechecking their actions, persistent, uncontrollable worry and anxiety in social situations.
Anxiety disorders include: Panic Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Phobia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Individuals may also develop Post -traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after experiencing a severely distressing or traumatic event. Untreated anxiety disorders often can lead to substance abuse, depression and even suicide.
To help individuals learn about anxiety disorders, their symptoms and effective treatments, the Richard Hall Community Mental Health Center of Somerset County will hold a free program and screening on Wednesday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 500 North Bridge St.
This is part of a national outreach program and is in recognition of “May is Mental Health Month.” The program includes completing a screening questionnaire and meeting with a mental health professional to review the questionnaire and receive information about various anxiety disorders and mental illnesses.
"Anxiety disorders bring tremendous suffering and pain to millions of Americans each year," said Freeholder Deputy Director Patricia Walsh, human services liaison. "The good news is that these illnesses can be effectively treated. Participating in the screening day on May 4 is the first step in finding help."
For additional information, call the Richard Hall Community Mental Health Center at 908-725-2800 or toll-free at 1-888-744-4417.
