Recession-proof your health

Is your head throbbing as bills pile up? Does your heart race as investments and job opportunities head south? Panic no more with our guide to recession-proofing your health

Financial stress can hurt not only your wallet but also your mind and body. Bankruptcies, repossessions and other economic woes are increasingly causing symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety and depression, which boosts the demand for mental health services.

Bail out your stress reaction

A certain amount of stress is normal and healthy. It motivates us and keeps us going. But many people have too much or handle it poorly, and that can make us sick.

It can lead to alcohol and substance abuse, headaches, ulcers, high blood pressure and heart disease. It can also raise the risk of obesity, diabetes, infections, back pain, irritable bowel syndrome and many other conditions.

To keep financial stress from making you sick, try these five coping tips:

1. Pause, don't panic

Stay aware of current events without succumbing to media hysteria. Try not to overreact to things you read or see on television while at the same time being careful not to simply become passive. Stay calm and focused.