HealthTree Blog

Don't let the economic crisis get you down.

With the worst financial crisis in decades in full swing, mental health professionals across the country are seeing a rise in major – or severe – depression.

Eight-two percent of those surveyed in a poll by the American Psychological Association noted they were stressed by financial issues related to the economy. The survey percentage is probably higher, as many others also may be keeping their depression quiet, too embarrassed to tell anyone.

Researchers studying past recessions have found links in higher unemployment in both Europe and the United States to increases in deaths from cancer, heart disease and psychiatric problems. Today’s physicians and other healthcare professionals find that coming true in today’s recession, too.

Mayoclinic.com defines major depression, also known as major depressive disorder and clinical depression, as affecting “how you feel, think and behave. Depression can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and depression may make you feel as if life isn’t worth living.”

While emotional stress is a common factor in depression, it does not always lead to depression. Rather, it’s today’s coping mechanisms to stress that bring out depression. With more and more people becoming stressed due to decreased job hours, job loss, and home loss, people are compensating for lack of finances by drinking more alcohol to relax, eating more salty and fatty foods because they are less expensive and exercising less as they no longer can afford gym membership.

Those who have lost their jobs appear to be the most effected by severe depression, especially when their long-term job loss means the loss of their home, as well. With foreclosure just around the corner for some people, those with severe depression may feel powerless against the financial strain of a fallen economy. In at least a few documented cases, some people have even committed suicide.

Don’t let severe depression get you down. Remember, you may not have control over the economic situation around you, but you do have control over how you react to the situation. Mental health professionals recommend you talk to others, eat as healthy as you can, speak with neighbors, and keep in mind that you are not alone in this economic crisis. Learn more about the signs of depression.

Photo Credit:   Ed Yourdon  on www.flickr.com