As if Covid wasn’t enough, inflation is overwhelming us. One of my neighbors just learned that the cost of heating his home this winter will increase 51%. On a fixed income and with a host of chronic conditions, his anxiety is causing more damage than his diseases.
Everyone I seem to encounter is “stressing” more than normal. Maybe I’m more aware of it as I live in the north and the approach of fall, with its colder temps and shorter days, increases the worry about heating and spiraling costs of food, transportation and housing.
Anxiety can manifest itself both physically (chest pain, diarrhea, headache, increased heart rate, muscle pain, shortness of breath etc.) and emotionally (panic attacks, poor concentration, sleep problems, fatigue, anger, excessive worry, fatigue etc.). Left unchecked it can make health problems worse, increase depression, and create problems with our relationships.
Ways to reduce stress
Take a break: While “taking a break” seems pretty simplistic, there is science behind it. Anxiety and stress flood your brain with chemicals designed to help you respond to a threat. While adrenaline and cortisol are important, they can also do considerably damage if left unchecked. A relaxing break decreases the stress and helps to reset your mood.
Even 5 minutes can make a difference. Have no solution to a problem and find your frustration spiraling? Walk away and do something completely different. Amazing how many times a solution comes to you after calming your mind and emotions.
Wednesday’s are “take a break” days on this blog and there are now over 400 ways to do that at the Take a Break Pinterest Board. There are posts on breathing techniques, exercising, art projects, meditation and so forth.
Socialize: Call a friend, arrange for a visit, plan an activity together. This has been a real issue thanks to Covid, but as the disease lessens, having connections with others makes a major difference.
Problem Solve: Understand that nearly everyone is struggling with finances combined with other issues these days. Connect with others to strategize ways to reduce cost. It helps to share tips on what you’ve found that works and to learn how others are coping with inflation. Check out some of these past posts and share:
- How to deal with rapidly rising costs
- Living within your means: Un stuff yourself
- How to Avoid Prescription Sticker Shock
Get help: If your finding your life is overwhelmed by anxiety and it’s:
• Been six months or more
• An obstacle in relationships
• Causing you to isolate
• Creating thoughts of hopelessness or helplessness
• Controlling your life
Sources of help include talking to a therapist, medical provider, friend, family member, spiritual adviser, support group, or crisis line. Don’t hesitate to reach out and remember so many people in your life have similar feelings.
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