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National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day

Raise awareness for mental health - join us on National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day and take the first step towards understanding and healing.

Wednesday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFirst Wednesday in May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYMental Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

As we champion awareness for mental health, we eagerly look forward to May 1 for the National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day. This day was specially designated in the early 1990s by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), as part of its mission to highlight the importance of early detection and treatment of anxiety disorders. It's a significant juncture in our calendar where individuals are encouraged to get screened and take that initial, crucial step towards understanding and healing. So, join us in illuminating the path towards mental wellness and in breaking down the societal stigma associated with mental health disorders!

TIMELINE

National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day Timeline

Anxiety Officially Recognized

Anxiety disorders are officially recognized in the third edition of "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-III) published by the American Psychiatric Association.

First Anxiety Disorders Screening Day

The National Institute of Mental Health establishes National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day, to raise awareness about the importance of diagnosis and treatment.

Increased Public Awareness

Public health campaigns during the 1990s significantly increased public awareness and understanding of anxiety disorders.

Establishment of ADAA

The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) is established, further promoting awareness and providing resources for individuals suffering from anxiety disorders.

Online Screening Tools

With the advent of digital platforms, online screening tools become widely available making it more accessible for individuals to seek help.

Global Mental Health Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic highlights mental health crisis with reported anxiety cases seeing a significant rise globally, emphasizing the importance of mental health screening.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day

Organize a community screening event

Contact your local health care providers and organize an event where people can come and get screened for anxiety disorders. This can be a great way to provide an accessible option for those in your community who may be grappling with anxiety issues.

PROMOTE

Promote awareness through social media

Use your social media platforms to make posts about National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day. This can not only bring awareness to the day itself, but also serve as an invitation for those who may be suffering in silence to consider getting screened.

START

Start a conversation

Get a dialogue going among friends, family, or coworkers about anxiety disorders. This can be a simple yet powerful way to break down stigmas and foster understanding.

HOST

Host a webinar or workshop

Invite mental health professionals to conduct a webinar or workshop on mental health. This can help educate the wider community about anxiety disorders and stress the importance of getting screened.

DONATE

Donate to mental health organizations

Celebrate National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day by making a donation to organizations dedicated to mental health. Your donation will help these organizations continue their work of providing resources and support for those suffering from anxiety disorders.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day is Important

Encourages Community Engagement

National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day offers an opportunity for community engagement. By organizing screening events, promoting awareness through social media, or conducting workshops, individuals can participate actively in making mental health services more accessible and removing the taboo associated with them.

Promotes Early Detection and Intervention

National Anxiety Disorders Screening Day plays a crucial role in raising awareness on the importance of early detection and treatment of anxiety disorders. Regular screening can help identify symptoms at an early stage, allowing for timely intervention and potentially preventing the disorder from worsening.

Strives to Break Down Social Stigma

This special day aims to dismantle societal stigma associated with mental health disorders. By starting conversations and promoting awareness, it encourages a more understanding and accepting society, where those suffering from such disorders feel more comfortable in seeking help.

Related holidays

Mental Health Awareness Month

An institutional initiative during May created by Mental Health America in 1949 to promote mental health awareness and education.

National Silence the Shame Day

On National Silence the Shame Day, let's break the stigma surrounding mental health and have open conversations to support each other.

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

Honor National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day and spread the message of understanding, support, and care for our youth!

National Depression Education and Awareness Month

October is not just about Halloween - it's also National Depression Education and Awareness Month, let's spread awareness and support for mental health!

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