Surviving the Economy: Reducing Stress

So, how do you feel about the economy?

Maybe a better question is: How does the economy make you feel?

Since the recession started, doctors have seen an increase in patients experiencing everything from depression to chest pain.

Does the ringing stock market bell give you a ringing headache?

Do you still feel down watching the DOW?

From Wall Street to your wallet, maybe some of us could use a little bit of relaxation and de-stressing.

DeAnn Saykawlard is trying acupuncture as part of her own emotional stimulus plan.

“My husband has been out of work for about a year,” Savkawlard said, “So I am the bread winner, which is not good, because I'm a part time teacher.”

But she's not the only one in need of a recession session.

Acupuncturist Raul Beltran said, “I would say 80 -90 percent of my patients have stress-related chronic conditions due to the economy.”

More stressed out patients are also setting up appointments with Dr. Karen Echwame at Illinois Masonic.

“I've been seeing a slow but steady increase and then a jump as the economy really took a nose dive,” Echwame said.

What doctors have found is when we're counting every dollar; we don't count on any health problems. Many of us tend to overlook some very serious symptoms.

“A lot of them are having chest pains,” said Dr. Annabell Volgman, the Director of Women’t Cardiology Center. “They're having chest discomfort. And also palpitations. Their hearts are beating fast.”

Rush University Medical Center reports recently seeing a 60 percent increase in phone calls from people complaining that stress is starting to affect them physically. Doctors say its different than anything they've seen in the past.

But in times like these, there are ways to take care of our health as well as our finances. Experts say it’s critical to relieve your stress by exercising or talking to a counselor. Spend quality time with family and friends to avoid feeling isolated and alone. And watch your diet, including drinking plenty of water. Dehydration can put stress on your heart.

In addition to acupuncture, DeAnn Saykawlard decided to exercise more. She started taking yoga classes and biking with her husband. She feels she's finally recovering even without an economic recovery.

“I’ve been sleeping much better,” Savkawlard said. “I haven’t been worrying about our financial situation.”

It's important for you to know, that even if you have lost your job or your health insurance, you still may be able to afford to go to the doctor.

Many hospitals have special financial assistance programs to help patients in that position.