Hard economic times mean change for everyone. Individuals, couples, and families are all affected by economic downturn and are struggling to make ends meet. If you are not experiencing financial struggle, consider yourself lucky! Finances, however, are only one thing affected by economic downturn. High stress, worry, and frustration caused by the economic changes can lead to mental and emotional change as well. Relationships often become unstable in the presence of high stress and financial frustration. Families often experience more fighting, less connection, and lack of support when stress, worry, and anxiety are present.
Depression can be an affect of financial struggle, along with anxiety attacks, feelings of worthlessness, extreme fear, and panic. Physical problems can arise from the effects of financial struggle also, such as ulcers, heartburn, and high blood pressure.
So, how can you manage all the changes caused by economic downturn and financial struggle?
First, I encourage you to begin thinking differently. I agree that the hard economic times are an incredible struggle. However, this is also an opportunity to grow. Learning how to better manage your money or downsize your living space may seem extreme to some, but learning a new skill, saving more money, and living within your means can help alleviate high stress and anxiety. Believing that you, your relationship, and your family will survive the hard time is also essential to managing your emotions and physical health. Have faith that you will make it and don’t give up.
Second, make a budget and stick to it! Many individuals, couples, and families live without a budget and find themselves scraping for money at the end of the month. Creating a budget that lists all your monthly expenses in comparison to your income is a great way to get a hold on your finances and make sure you have enough money for the survival essentials like housing, food, and clothing. If you find that you are spending more than you make, I encourage you to eliminate unnecessary expenditures from your budget. Make dinner at home instead of eating out or don’t buy the new shirt you really want. Be intentional about your spending. Using cash can also be a great way to cut down on your spending. Withdraw a certain amount for eating out or buying clothes, and when the money is gone, don’t spend anymore.
Third, be creative when making money. Maybe now is the time to finally have that garage sale you’ve been planning to have for two years. Collect unneeded items from your home and organize a sale. Ask your friends to help or combine their items for a larger selection and moral support. If you are a video game lover, clean out your game supply and trade or sell them for something different. You don’t need to spend $40 on a new game when you could find it used.
Fourth, be aware of your emotional changes. Notice when your stress level is high and when you feel anxious. Be aware of your feelings and how they affect your interactions with family members, friends, and coworkers. If you are unsure how your emotions fluctuate, ask someone you trust if they have seen a change. Have them explain what they have seen.
If you notice that you are experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety due to the economic downturn and are struggling most days of the week to manage your emotions and relationships, I encourage you to seek support from a counselor. A counselor can assist you with necessary changes that need to be made and can offer additional resources for help. Please call the Lotus Group if you are experiencing emotional upset and believe the support of a counselor would be beneficial as you fight financial struggle.
Kristie L. Watts Lotus Group Fishers, IN 595-5555 www.lotusgroup.biz