LOOKING UP IN A DOWNTURN

Economic Woes Fuel Winter Blues

By Ralph Provenza

Last month economists finally told us something most people in Bennington already knew: the U.S. economy has been in a recession since December 2007.

Bad economic news is not welcome any time of year, but the ongoing financial crisis causes additional stress during the winter months when frigid temperatures, long periods of darkness and the after effects of stress-inducing holidays can lead people to feel depressed. Add to that the uncertainty surrounding how long the crisis will last and what it will take to turn the economy around, and you have a recipe for widespread uneasiness.

Sometimes referred to as the winter blues, these feelings of anxiousness can often deepen and spread to the entire family. Marital fights flare up as spouses argue about holiday bills and ask themselves what to do now. Children experience their own emotional upset, hearing parents argue and feeling the family tension.

A recent poll conducted by the American Psychological Association found that almost half of all adults said they are increasingly stressed about their ability to provide for their family's basic needs. In fact, about eight out of 10 adults said that the economy is a significant cause of stress, up from 66 percent in April.

The economic crisis affects everyone, regardless of socio-economic standing. From auto mechanics with fewer cars to work on, to stay-at-home parents wondering if they need to find jobs, to executives worrying about layoffs, almost everyone is experiencing increased levels of stress and anxiety.

As a result, United Counseling Service, like community mental health centers across the country, has seen an upsurge in the number of referrals in recent months, and many existing clients are telling us they are struggling with anxiety and depression related to the economic downturn.

To help cope with what appears to be a long-term economic downturn, people can follow some simple guidelines:

  • Focus on positive aspects of your life. Look to family and friends to support you.
  • Exercise, maintain a healthy diet and a normal sleep schedule— physical and mental health are closely connected.
  • Plan for the future as much as you can. The more action you can take, the more control you'll have and the less stressed you'll feel.
  • Try to take a long view. Maybe it was bad yesterday. Today it still may be bad. But things will get better over time.
  • Volunteer! When you look for ways to answer needs in your local community, it takes your mind off your own worries and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Take charge of your immediate environment. If you’re troubled by media coverage and conversations about the worsening economy, change channels, turn the page, or excuse yourself from the conversation.

If sadness and anxiety begin to adversely affect normal functioning — namely, relationships, work, sleep, appetite and sex, professional help may be needed. Then you can always call us at United Counseling Service, or visit us on the web.