Coping with the Economic Crisis

Headlines and news reports of the economic crisis can add stress and sometimes depression to our lives if we let them.

The following are some suggestions to help you through the current economic crisis.

Assess what you have control over and what you do not have control over
Taking action and being proactive help reduce anxiety and help one to feel more in control-of what can be controlled. Putting our energy and thoughts into what we have control over reduces anxiety. Channel negative energy and thoughts away from what you do not have control over.

Practice self-care
Stress impairs coping and thinking ability, so practice stress-reducing behaviors. Below are a few self-care techniques.

• Breathe. Deep slow breaths or deep slow breaths while counting help take oxygen throughout the body and calm the mind.
• Practice being quiet. Focusing on an object or a scene using all your senses can calm anxiety.
• Exercise (even mild exercise, like walking) can reduce anxiety and elevate your mood.
• Keep to your daily routine. Include fun and socializing in your weekly routine.
• Laugh. Recall pleasant memories, tell funny stories or jokes, watch humorous television programs or movies. Laughter is healing to the spirit and body.
• Play. Play does not have to cost money. One can dance, sing, play backyard games, or watch a movie borrowed from the library.
• Limit the amount of time you watch TV news and commentaries that focus on the negative.
• Find time to spend with friends and family who are supportive. Isolating oneself can lead to depression and limited outlook.
• Create a To-Do Jar or a notebook with "If I have time, I can… List small tasks, fun activities that don't cost. Draw one out if you get depressed or bored.
• Create something

Be solution-focused

• Problem-solve. Put your anxiety and energy into problem-solving. If you can't solve your immediate problems, do tasks in which you can see obvious improvement (i.e., pull weeds, mow grass, paint, help someone else, volunteer). Doing is better than not doing in most cases. Helping others elevates our moods and gives us a sense of accomplishment.
• Try to think of creative solutions to problems. If you aren't able to do the things you used to do, what can you substitute?

Think positive and long-term, not short-term
Remember that everything changes. So, although this economic crisis may last for some time, it will eventually end.

Rely on your spiritual beliefs, your system of faith
Trusting in a higher power reduces stress and gives hope. Fellowship with others of similar faiths encourages and strengthens us.

Remember your strengths
Think about past times that were difficult and how you got through them. What inner resources did you use successfully that you can use now?

Seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed or just need someone to listen.

Contact us, if you need a referral or have questions about professional help.

The ULM Counseling Center
1140 University Avenue
Monroe, LA 71209

318 342-5220

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