How to Deal With Survival Stress During The Economic Crisis

For many of us, stress can feel like a normal state – especially during the worsening economic crisis -- which could be considered an emergency. However, whether through support, sleep, or radical self-care, there are ways to help alleviate the worst of it.

Many of our everyday challenges have been exacerbated by the economic crisis and it's social consequences. Those who are dealing with additional financial difficulties, health issues, or caregiving responsibilities, in particular, may feel as if there is no way out. Even if stress appears to be an unavoidable part of your situation and you don't have the option or the resources to change it, there are ways to support yourself.

The current economic climate has impacted every aspect of our lives, and we are all feeling the pinch. When we're laying the groundwork for our emergency survival plans, these shifts are especially noticeable. These unanticipated changes can be extremely stressful, especially in light of the current state of the country. Add to your dissatisfactions the government's response to specific actions, the unemployment situation, the possibility of a disaster, or the death of a loved one, and your life can be turned upside down.

As though the current political and economic situation wasn't bad enough, you begin to notice mood swings ranging from helplessness to outright rage. As a result of your frustrations, you may even lash out at the people you care about the most. You may succumb to depression very quickly. When dealing with your frustrations and anger, you may feel isolated. Allowing yourself and your family members to express their pent-up emotions is a simple way to deal effectively with these types of emotions. Do not suggest that someone "snap out" of their mood, as this implies that the person's feelings are not serious.

An emergency may force you to make drastic changes in your life, disrupting and changing your normal routines. This is the most common source of stress for most people.

Unemployment and the inability to adequately prepare for any type of emergency adds to the stress. All of your family members are affected by your stress during these times. In this case, it's critical that you communicate with one another and offer complete support to one another. Naturally, until things return to normal, some responsibilities and roles will need to be modified. Your chances of survival will be greatly increased if you as a family can adequately meet the challenges that have been placed before you.

One of the first rules of Special Forces training is that you must keep your body in good shape in order to cope with your current situation. Eat nutritious, well-balanced meals, get plenty of rest, and, most importantly, exercise on a regular basis. This procedure allows you to take a break from the stressful situation you're in. 

Some other methods include:

• Put on your favorite tunes.
• Take a long bath or shower.
• Do some yard work or gardening.
• Go for a brisk walk around the block.
• View a video or a film.

Stress is known to cause a variety of symptoms in the body. Dry mouth and throat, headaches, hot feeling, dizziness, grinding your teeth, loss of appetite, tightness in your neck or shoulders, increased heartbeat, heartburn, and cold sweats are some of the signs and symptoms. These are common, but if they don't go away, you should consider seeking professional help.