Financial Stress Can Harm Your Health

Today's economy is creating a lot of anxiety associated with the financial uncertainty of the recession we are currently experiencing. Eight out of ten Americans now report that the economy is a significant stressor for them. They are experiencing health concerns from headaches to heart disease. According to the American Psychological Association 52% of us are lying awake at night worrying about the world we live in today.

This is bad news since sleep loss is linked to higher blood pressure. Stress can also lead to emotional eating of unhealthy comfort foods. Here are some suggestions to remain balanced in stressful times:

• Find time to laugh. Laughing creates endorphins to lift your mood and suppress stress-related hormones.
• Create a nurturing environment for yourself. Learn to relax as worrying will not solve the problem.
• Exercise to release your tension and lower your blood pressure. It also creates those endorphins that lift our mood.
• Turn on your favorite music to combat the stress hormone cortisol and lower your blood pressure. Relaxing never felt so good!

There are several ways to combat the stress you encounter each and every day. Stay close to your family, friends, and faith. Never lose hope as there is always a new day tomorrow to begin again. If anxiety and depressive symptoms take over the joy in your life do not hesitate to seek professional support.

Warm regards,

Gina