Behavioral Health Articles
The Economy and Stigma
by G. Lloyd-Lester
The economy. You hear about it on the radio, you see it on TV, you read about it in the paper: it’s the talk of the town no matter what town you live in. Directly or indirectly, chances are you or someone you know has been impacted by these challenging economic times.
Whether it’s the loss of a job, concerns over job security, or the tough spending choices many of us are forced to make between food, shelter, clothing and medical costs, the current recession is wreaking havoc with the physical and emotional well-being of just about everyone.
Over the past year there have been a number of high profile stories played out in the national media involving tragedies that were in part a result of the extreme economic hardships impacting the country. Although sometimes sensational in nature, perhaps these stories can shed light on potential opportunities for people in the community, should they find themselves in need of additional support during these difficult economic times.
For instance, some of you reading this article may find yourself in the unique position of having to access services and programs that you are unfamiliar with or never thought you would need. Having to reach out and utilize some of these services may provoke feelings of doubt or insecurity on top of the already raw emotions which can accompany job loss or other financial hardships.
However if the need does arise to take advantage of financial or employment services, we most of us are willing to set aside any misgivings and acknowledge that receiving temporary support to help get us through tough times is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw but rather a necessary step toward caring for ourselves and our loved ones.
The loss of a job or reduction of income, loss of insurance, and fear of bankruptcy or foreclosure can be overwhelming and cause major financial turmoil. The pocketbook is not the only area that can suffer: these losses or the fear of loss can be emotionally and physically draining on the entire family as well. Family relationships can become strained, parents can become overwhelmed, and children can get wrapped up in concerns better left to adults.
The losses associated with economic hardship can increase stress and anxiety and make existing conditions worse. During times like these, some of us may find ourselves not only in need of financial or vocational assistance, but we may also find ourselves in the position of requiring some additional emotional support. Stress can impact our physical health, our thoughts, and behaviors. It’s important to recognize the value of having close friends, family members, or a pastoral counselor with whom you feel comfortable discussing concerns. Many times these less formal supports are all we need to help get us through a tough spot.
Sometimes, though, the counsel of trusted friends or family is not enough. At potential times of heightened stress, it is more important than ever not to allow the stigma associated with mental health services to negatively influence the decision to reach out for support. Neither our neighbors nor our family are likely to think less of us should we find ourselves in a position to seek some type of financial assistance to help us get on our feet again. Given the supportive nature of the community, the same should be true if we find ourselves being so overwhelmed by economic hardships that we feel the need to seek supportive counseling.
We are fortunate in Cortland County to have a variety of vocational and health and human services agencies able to provide support and information to help individuals get through these tough times. For more information on some of the services available in the area, you can go to the Seven Valleys Health Coalition website at: http://www.sevenvalleyshealth.org/agencies/default.html, or call the Youth Services Development Director at Cortland County Mental Health at 758-6100, ext. 256.