Tips on Coping with Unemployment Stress

By Rachel Stockton (rachels@foodconsumer.org)

According to the American Journal of Public Health, young men and women who go through extended periods of unemployment demonstrate an increase in depressive symptoms.  A study based on analysis of the Longitudinal Survey of Youth from 1979-1994 reveals that being currently unemployed, coupled with past periods of unemployment during the transition from adolescence to adulthood were both fairly good prognosticators of future depressive symptoms.

This report dovetails with an article in the current issue of Newsweek that states that an overwhelming majority of American adults are actually losing sleep over the current economic condition; WebMd reports that 80% of Americans feel stress over their financial and economic standing.

The fight or flight response to stress over time can take a tremendous toll on the mind AND body.  While a certain amount of stress is healthy and helps contribute to our overall productivity, the old adage that says we can have too much of a good thing certainly applies here.

Fortunately, the human body is fairly resilient and is responsive to anti-stress techniques.  Here are some of the best ways to stave off depression and anxiety before it becomes debilitating:

*Exercise daily

According to WebMd, the brain's chemical reaction to exercise can help to alleviate stress and anxiety.  Endorphins, or "feel-good" hormones, kick in and counteract feelings of hopelessness

*Go on a "news- fast".  According to a current feature in Newsweek, watching the news for more than half an hour can have an adverse effect on mood and well-being.  Remember, cable networks thrive on bad news.  Remind yourself that dire stories make the headlines because they are relatively rare.  This mindset can go a long way in helping to put things in perspective.

*Eat nutritious meals.  "You are what you eat" is more than just a catchy phrase, it's very nearly an eternal truism.  Eating junk food can add to our feelings of helplessness.

*Take a proactive stance.  According to several recent studies, people who actively try to find ways to better their situation are healthier, both mentally and physically.   Feelings of helplessness and victimization lead to all sorts of unpleasant ailments.