Coping with Stress and Worry

Coping with uncertainty: America’s new favorite pastime? Who among us isn’t experiencing job insecurity or investment losses or reduced home equity or money-borrowing obstacles?

Life is chaotic. While you may know this intellectually, most people aren’t prepared for actually feeling unsure or unconfident. Just the fact that you’re feeling uncertain can make you panic. Unfair, but true.

Let’s take some of the onus off of ourselves and implicate our culture in this shortcoming. Most people in our world believe that we are, or are supposed to be, in control. A belief that doesn’t take into account one thing: reality.

And there are implications: uncertainty can take an even greater toll on health and wellbeing than bad news.

There are things you can do about it. The first is to realize there’s productive worry and unproductive worry. It’s unproductive to stay up at night worrying that housing prices are falling. It’s productive to think about something you can do in the next 24 hours.

And here’s another tip: Cut back on the TV and other sources of “bad news.” That doesn’t mean you should hide under a rock. If you have a real concern that you can do something about, look into it. Hiding from useful knowledge can add to your anxiety. If you’re worried about making mortgage payments or your home equity, [advice.]

Also, put things in context. Markets have always gone up and down. So has real estate. If your job isn’t giving you all the security you crave, find ways to improve your skills.

Stress is a normal reaction to current events and a certain amount of it can motivate us to take action. But when stress becomes too great, it can incapacitate you. If you feel an attack coming on, think about what opportunities might be hiding in your situation. Creative adaption is your best survival skill. Add to your strengths by connecting with trusted friends who help you build confidence.

Make sure stress doesn't get the better of you: Don't make rash decisions when you're anxious. Take care of your health by getting enough sleep, eating well and excercising. Even try some relaxation tecchniques like deep breathing or meditation. Be honest with the people in your life about your emotional needs. And protect your children from feeling your anxiety.