Bad economy causing mental disturbance outbreaks

Nature is abundant with beauty and hope.

As more news comes out concerning FED Chief Ben Bernanke's view of the world's economy and the financial status of alleged shooter Nathan Van Wilkins are revealed, it may be time to ponder how experiencing anxiety and fear as a result of economic stressors can be mitigated.

Turning to God is one answer. Understanding that the world economic situation is not something individual citizens can resolve is also important.

Personal financial woes are hitting everyone now. Even the pseudo rich are being affected by the continuing economic downturn, including former heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield who just walked away from a mansion he paid $20 million for which the bank repossessed and resold for $7.5 million.

Banks are calling folks on the 2nd day of the month, telling them they are delinquent on their unpaid mortgages if not paid on the 1st, probably because the banks themselves are finding times tough because they have been hit by fines for fraud themselves.

Unemployed college graduates are wondering whether their American dream will ever be realized while student loan payment statements continue to arrive in the mail. Middle age workers are wondering how they will retire and be able to stay in houses they have called HOME for decades.

Religion and affinity with the downtrodden, though, doesn't necessarily make things better when you're at your wits end.

According to the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and the Illinois Children’s Mental Health Partnership, one should relax when it seems personal financial situations are getting the best of them.

1. Take charge of your immediate environment. If you're troubled by media coverage and conversations about the worsening economy, change channels, turn the page, or excuse yourself from the conversation.
2. Plan for the future as much as you can. Learn a new skill. Take a class about something that interests you. The more action you can take, the more in control you'll be and the less stressed you'll feel.
3. Get some form of physical exercise. Play ball, take a walk or ride a bike.
4. Get some fresh air. Just sitting by an open window or outside in the sun can refresh you.
5. Talk to someone you trust. Let them know how you’re doing. Ask for help if you think you need it.
6. Understand and be honest about your limitations. Try not to take on more responsibilities than you can handle.
7. Find a reason to laugh. Read a funny book. Watch a funny program on television.
8. Get involved in something outside of yourself. Volunteer your time.
9. Allow yourself a treat, but watch your diet. Make sure you’re not indulging too often in anything that’s bad for you.
10. Find a way to relax. Practice meditation or yoga, get a massage, pray, light a scented candle, read a book, etc.

Prayer does help. I've tried it. Telling yourself that everything will work out also helps. This age will also pass away. Like my mama used to say, "Bad times don't last always." Keep on moving forward - you have no other choice. Look to the hills.

Psalm 121 - David's Song of Ascent

121 I will lift up my eyes to the hills—
From whence comes my help?
² My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth.

³ He will not allow your foot to be moved;
He who keeps you will not slumber.
⁴ Behold, He who keeps Israel
Shall neither slumber nor sleep.

⁵ The Lord is your keeper;
The Lord is your shade at your right hand.
⁶ The sun shall not strike you by day,
Nor the moon by night.

⁷ The Lord shall preserve you from all evil;
He shall preserve your soul.
⁸ The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in
From this time forth, and even forevermore.

©2012 Tomi Johnson. All rights reserved.