NEW FILM SCREENING AND PANEL DISCUSSION 

ABOUT ANXIETY, TOOLS AND RESOURCES TO MANAGE ANXIETY & HOPE

TUESDAY, AUGUST 28 AT 6:30 PM AT BIRMINGHAM FIRST CHURCH

Birmingham First is sparking local conversation about anxiety through a screening of a brand-new documentary, “Angst: Raising Awareness Around Anxiety.” On Tuesday, August 28 at 6:30 p.m., Birmingham First will hold a special screening of the documentary to open up a dialogue between local families, community leaders and experts. The event will feature a viewing of the 56-minute film, followed by an informative panel discussion. Panel experts include Samaritan Counseling Center of Southeastern Michigan staff members Dr. Vanessa Brown, Psychologist; Dr. Ron Studer, Counselor; Terri Morr-Jones, Therapist; Mark Phelps, Executive Director; and Dr. Rita Valade, Social Worker. For more information about the panelists, go to https://www.fumcbirmingham.org/angst/

The goal of this screening and panel discussion is to start a local conversation and raise awareness around anxiety. Through candid interviews, the documentary utilizes the power of film to tell the stories of many kids and teens who discuss their anxiety and its impact on their lives and relationships, as well as how they’ve found solutions and hope. The film also includes a special interview with Michael Phelps, a mental health advocate and one of the greatest athletes of all time. In addition, the documentary provides discussions with mental health experts about the causes of anxiety and its sociological effects, along with the help, resources and tools available to address the condition. 

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health challenge in the U.S., impacting 54 percent of females and 46 percent of males, with age seven being the median age of onset, according to the World Health Organization. While anxiety disorders are highly treatable, only one-third of those suffering receive treatment. Everyone involved in the development of “Angst” has a personal experience with anxiety – from the producers to the interviewees.

Admission is free and appropriate for middle school students, high school students and adults. 

"Everybody needs to know that anxiety disorders are real, common and treatable instead of viewing them as a personal choice or something to be ashamed of,” said Dr. Jerry Bubrick, Senior Director of Anxiety Disorders Center, Child Mind Institute. “Getting help early is crucial in giving people the tools they need to feel better. We just need to start the conversation." 

"We felt it was important to raise awareness, open up the conversation, and provide hope," said Kelly Willian, Director of Children, Student and Family Ministries at Birmingham First. "So many youth and adults struggle with anxiety and have trouble talking about it. We want to change that."

For more information, contact Kelly Willian at 248-646-1200 ext. 3128. The church is located at 1589 W. Maple Road (between Southfield and Cranbrook) in Birmingham.