Silver Spring, MD (February 9, 2004) - The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) will host two days of programs dedicated to individuals with anxiety disorders, and their family, friends and caregivers at the Hyatt Regency in Miami, FL, March 10 and 13, 2004.
The sessions provide education about the nature, management and treatment of anxiety disorders; this information is geared toward individuals with anxiety disorders and their families, and the general public.

On Wednesday, March 10, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Jerilyn Ross, MA, LICSW, President and CEO of the ADAA and Dennis Charney, M.D., Chief of the Mood and Anxiety Disorders Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health will lead discussions on the causes, diagnosis and treatment of panic disorder, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress Disorder (PTSD) and generalized anxiety disorder GAD). This session is free and open to the public. Because the space for this event is limited, please sign up in advance online at www.adaa.org. Onsite registration is also available and all walk-ins are welcome.

On Saturday, March 13 from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm, nationally recognized experts will discuss topics including PTSD, phobias, panic disorder, social phobia, OCD, and GAD. This all-day program has a one-day fee of $50. Morning and afternoon sessions will feature the following topics:

• Anxiety Disorders 101- Recognizing that anxiety disorders are real, serious and treatable is an important step in getting and staying well.
  
• Faces of Hope - Hear stories of hope and encouragement from individuals with anxiety disorders.
  
• Family Matters - Anxiety disorders affect the entire family. Learn strategies for taking care of yourself while caring for others and how to support family members with anxiety disorders.
  
• Self-help - Learn how to construct a personal plan.
  
• Q&A about Treatment Options - Learn about current and developing medication therapies, cognitive-behavioral therapy and other treatments.

Also available on Saturday is special access to prominent authors, an onsite bookstore, exhibit hall, hospitality & resource room, free educational information and opportunities to meet other individuals with anxiety disorders.

For program and registration information, visit www.adaa.org or call (240) 485-1001 for conference information.

The ADAA is the only national, nonprofit partnership of researchers, health care professionals, and individuals with anxiety disorders. The ADAA is dedicated to the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of anxiety disorders. It is the Association's goal to promote professional and public awareness and understanding of anxiety disorders; it also seeks to increase the availability of effective treatment, reduce the stigma surrounding anxiety disorders, and stimulate research.