Dec 5, 2008 10:30 am US/Eastern
Bah, Humbug! Tips To Manage Your Holiday Stress
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
With the economy in recession and the holidays around the corner, many Americans feel like they've just been given a one-two punch. Stress and depression are at peak levels now, but CBS 2 has some advice to fix those frazzled nerves.
The holidays should be a time of yuletide joy, but with the economy at its worst in decades, for many, Santa is only bringing a dose of depression on his sleigh.
"Holidays are such a tough time for many people. The stress of finances, the stress of family, the stress of jobs," says Dr. Robin Kerner of St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital.
The American Psychiatric Association reported the economy was a significant cause of stress for 8 out of 10 Americans, and almost half were worried about providing for their family's needs.
Some simple strategies may ease the stress, however.
When it comes to gift-giving, don't spend what you don't have. This can trigger feelings of guilt leading to post-holiday depression.
"This tough economic time is an opportunity for people to rediscover what the holidays are really about, which is giving time, giving homemade gifts, giving back," says Kerner.
The best way to weather the economic storm is by taking care of yourself. Eating poorly, skipping exercise, smoking and drinking could create health problems and raise stress levels, not lower them.
Reach out to family, friends, and confidants. Research shows receiving support from others helps to manage stress.
And finally, don't hesitate to get help.
"If you feel like you're much sadder than usual, you're not able to do your daily functioning, you're feeling more isolated, those are clues that you may need to start seeing somebody professionally," says Kerner.
Try not to overdose on information about the state of the economy. Experts say it's important to pay attention to what's happening, but don't get caught up in doom and gloom every moment.
More than 80 percent of people who seek help for depression see an improvement in their symptoms.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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