The financial crisis that our country is currently facing is troubling to us all. High gas and energy prices, groceries that seem to cost more than they did just last week, financial losses and declining home values can cause stress and anxiety. Managing stress during difficult times is important. It lets us go on with our lives, maintain a positive outlook, see opportunities, and appreciate what is important regardless of very real difficulties. Effectively managing stress helps us avoid depression or resorting to excessive use of alcohol or drugs, etc.

How do you know if you are stressed?

Sometimes stress can creep up on you without your being aware of it, until it accumulates and you suddenly feel overwhelmed, excessively angry, anxious or depressed. Some indicators to pay attention to:

• problems sleeping
• drinking or eating more
• lack of motivation
• feeling “discombobulated,” or more disorganized and anxious than usual
• temper shorter than usual
• impatience with family members, in the workplace or with friends.

Stress Reactions: When to Get Help

Some reactions are normal and others indicate trouble ahead. If you or someone in your family find prolonged signs of the following behaviors, it may be time to seek assistance.

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Suicide threats, either direct or indirect
• Significant change in behavior
• Severe drop in job or school performance
• Relationship difficulties
• Irrational or bizarre behavior
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Headaches or stomachaches with no physical cause
• Grinding teeth
• Eating or sleeping problems, nightmares
• Depression or panic
• Confusion
• Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions

Stress Busters