30 CHOICES | 2013 SPRING ISSUE
DEALING WITH DEBT STRESS
It is common for people experiencing depression to spend in order to try to make themselves feel better about their situation which only exacerbates the problem . ddressing the “ whole
A person ” is imperative in achieving overall health and balance on a physical , mental , emotional level . Stress is a major cause of anxiety and creates imbalance . Several studies have shown that high stress levels due to debt can damage more than your credit score ; it also poses serious threats to your health and well being .
According to a 2009 AP / AOL survey , Debt Stress in the United States , people with moderately high or high levels of debt stress experience mental and physical health deterioration . Some symptoms include loss of sleep , anxiety , depression , ulcers and other digestive issues , heart problems , and migraines to name a few .
Many employers find that due to these problems , their employees experience loss of production , increased absenteeism from work , and a decreased ability to handle situations with other employees .
In my practice , I deal with many people who are experiencing depression . There is a correlation between depression and debt . It is common for people experiencing depression to spend in order to try to make themselves feel better about their situation which only exacerbates the problem . A closet full of clothes and shoes may bring short term satisfaction but the lasting result is one of desperation and depression . It is sometimes hard to look at the big picture when you are caught up in the anxiety of the everyday but as with all problems , there is a solution ! Here are a few tips :
1 . Create a plan for debt repayment . Having a plan written out on paper gives order to the chaos . There are many options available to help you with this . Check with your bank as many of them offer free programs .
2 . Become aware of the negative ways you handle stress . Some of the common ways are : eating , drinking , smoking , hibernating at home with the remote and a bag of chips , spending , and self criticism . Look for positive , healthy ways to deal with stress . Take a bath , go for a walk in nature , call a loved one or friend , meditate , read a good book , work on a favorite hobby .
3 . Exercise !! A proven stress reducer . It gives a sense of accomplishment and clarity as well as feeding the brain with delicious endorphins and oxygen .
4 . Embrace a healthy diet with lots