HOW TO FEEL BETTER IN A DOWN ECONOMY

                                                                                         

The economic crisis is all over the news. With the dramatic drop of over 50% in the stock market in the last year, many people struggling with the foreclosure of their homes, and the unemployment rate soaring in just a blink of an eye, the financial stress experienced by many people is contributing to a rise in mental health problems.

According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, 83 percent of American women and 78 percent of American men are experiencing heightened stress related to money. With that said, it is true to say that money is often on the minds of many of us. Who would feel secure with all the negativity related to the economic meltdown? Many become fearful as they cope and try to recover from this worldwide financial crunch.

But, financial strain can be managed. There are many coping mechanisms available for managing this kind of stress. What is important is to maintain good habits to maintain mental health. Once in a while, pause for a moment and evaluate your situation. Focus on yourself and your own well-being because money is not everything in this world. What we should keep in mind is not to panic as economic turmoil happens around us. But, it is a reality that all of us must undauntedly face, or else, if one allows fear and anxiety to rule, it can affect your overall emotional well-being.

Dealing with financial stress can be a difficult undertaking, as many people already know. Most married couples nowadays seeking marriage counseling find out that money matters can be a major source of conflict. Financial management works differently for every family that is why constant and good communication plays an important role to reduce relationship friction.


Here are 7 steps for everyone to feel better in a down economy:
1. Be healthy. Exercise, take a break, and eat healthy foods.
2. Talk with other people about what you are really feeling. Holding on to worries and anxiety only builds up stress.
3. Volunteer. Be of help to others instead of entertaining anxiety-provoking thoughts about the economy.
4. Ask for professional support. When things really become hard to handle, seek support from a mental health professional to help you address the emotions behind your financial worries and anxiety.
5. Socialize. Visit family members and friends. Do not just stay at home and sulk over the meltdown.
6. Meditate. Relaxing can provide a new perspective on life.
7. Bond and talk frankly with your kids. Explain in terms that they can understand and are appropriate. Educate them on what is happening in our economy and the anxiety people are feeling. Let them know these periods are cyclical as the economy goes up and down. It will help them cope with the reality of life we are facing today.

About the author:
www.CreatingPositiveOutcomes.com is the official website of Christine Hardway, a licensed clinical social worker in Tampa, Florida with over 10 years of experience. She is a psychotherapist helping clients deal with difficulties such as anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Her specialty is counseling couples as a Marriage Counselor.



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