There’s a reason that mental illnesses have the nickname “silent killers.” There is still a stigma associated with mental illness, so many people suffer alone, and never seek the help they need.
Some of the most common forms of unspoken mental illness in the country are anxiety and depression. No one is immune to these mental health issues, yet many suffer silently. To cut through misunderstanding and to give the voiceless a voice, we observe National Anxiety and Awareness Week, which is observed May 7th through 13th in 2017. Let’s learn more about the National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week and what it’s all about.
What to Know About National Anxiety & Depression Awareness Week
Anxiety and Depression Affect More People than You Think
Studies and surveys show that anxiety is the most diagnosed mental illness in the country at around 40 million Americans or 18 percent of the general population. Out of that number, half of those are dual-diagnosed with depression. Even though those numbers are high, most people stay quiet about their anxiety and depression.
National Anxiety and Depression Week is a Great Time to Find Help
National Anxiety and Depression Week is not only about awareness, but finding sufferers the help they need. If you or someone you know is suffering from anxiety or depression, take advantage of the week. Many mental health websites that offer free literature and more during National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week.
The Major Goal of National Anxiety and Depression Week is to Destroy Stigma
As stated earlier, many people suffer from anxiety and depression due to the social stigma, despite the fact these illnesses affect a sizable part of the population. One of the major goals of National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week is to create more awareness to help eliminate stigma. When the stigma surrounding these illnesses is gone, you’ll find much more people getting the help they need.
Even though thousands of Americans suffer from anxiety and depression, many do not seek the help they need. National Anxiety and Depression Awareness Week educates people to let them know they’re not alone, to help stamp out the social stigma surrounding anxiety and depression, and to finally get people the help they need.