deardori_may09State of the Economy: State of Your Health
Recently, we have been witness to an economic climate in our country that has lead to cuts in spending, job losses, bankruptcy, home foreclosures, and even murder-suicides. Although history has proven that our economy will eventually stabilize and even grow, we all have real concerns as we remain in the midst of these times.

In the past several months, I have been approached by family members and friends regarding the “normalcy” of their worries. I have been told of many concerns: difficulty paying bills, lack of job stability, worry about supporting families, and increased reports of hopelessness and helplessness. Concerns often lead to anxiety, which in turn can be either healthy or harmful. Mild anxiety will motivate us to find healthy solutions, such as job searches, second jobs, and re-financing homes. High levels of anxiety will paralyze us from functioning appropriately and effectively, such as resorting to illegal jobs (prostitution, drug dealing, gambling, money laundering) to pay bills or feeling so helpless that we begin to consider suicide.

As I respond to friends and family members, I like to use the following question as a gauge for their level of concerns: “Are your feelings interfering with your ability to function on a day to day basis?” A slight variation of this question is also helpful in assessing other people in our lives “Have you noticed a change in your [husband’s] ability to function on a day to day basis?” If the answer is yes, I suggest you seek help from a licensed professional. If the answer is currently no, I suggest you continue to monitor yourself and your loved ones for any significant changes in levels of functioning.

Dori Chait, LCSW-C is a licensed clinical social worker. She has experience working in acute care settings, both with individuals who are medically fragile and psychiatric patients. You can submit your “Dear Dori” questions to info@charmedmag.com.