Combat Recession Depression

by Michael Radkowsky, Psy.D.

With escalating financial turmoil and fears about the future on everyone's mind, little wonder that many of us are morose.

"What can I do?", one of my clients asked me recently. "I'm really depressed over how bad things are going. My job is in jeopardy, my finances are crumbling...I'm sick over it and it's affecting everything: My energy is down, my creativity is down. I feel awful and I'm no fun to be around. I'm spending more and more time alone..."

Sound familiar?

Well, what can you do when you're seriously blue? Most of us believe that we have to accept depression when it strikes, just as we accept bad weather, grumbling hopelessly until it moves on. But here's some good news. You don't!

In fact, instead of helplessly moping, which does nothing but make things worse, you can mobilize your brain to fight this unwelcome intruder.

How?

Your first and best move is to see depression as something outside of yourself, an enemy against whom you must take action, rather than rolling over in defeat. When you make this shift in your thinking, you will stop feeling like a helpless victim.

Now you can roll up your sleeves and get to work on improving your mood.

For starters, be aware that dwelling on things that make you miserable deepens your depression. So, shift your focus away from things that get you down, that you truly can't control. While this may seem challenging, it is possible to take charge of your thoughts. To start, simply pay attention to what you are focusing on, and gently guide your mind away from negative ruminations whenever you notice them coming up. The more you practice, the easier it gets.

The next step is to take action to change the factors contributing to your depression that are within your power to change. This will give you something positive to focus on, and will help you to feel proactive rather than powerless. If you believe that there is nothing you can do, challenge yourself to find a move to make. You can almost always find something to do.

As with anxiety, it's important to take great care of yourself when fighting depression, so get adequate sleep, eat well, and sweat often. Remember that exercise actually changes your brain chemistry in the same way that antidepressants are thought to work.

Finally, connecting with others (both humans and pets) will reduce your isolation, shift your focus, and improve your mood. And don't hesitate to seek professional help. A skilled therapist can help you stop negative or fearful thinking, develop the ability to soothe yourself, and learn to face challenges with creativity and strength. If you feel stuck or hopeless, feel free to give me a call. I can help you learn to manage stress effectively and develop better ways to cope.

Want to combat your recession depression? Click here to learn about individual psychotherapy in Washington DC with Dr. Michael Radkowsky.

Is recession depression affecting your relationship? Click here to learn about couples therapy in Washington DC with Dr. Michael Radkowsky.

This article may be forwarded in full without special permission, provided that it is used for not-for-profit purposes, and provided that full attribution and copyright notice are given. For other purposes, contact Michael Radkowsky at michael@personalgrowthzone.com.

Return to Articles index

Michael Radkowsky, Psy.D.
Licensed Psychologist

~ 15 years experience ~

"I help clients create strong relationships and fulfilling lives."

3000 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 137
Washington, DC 20008

Ready to take the next step?
Call or e-mail Dr. Michael Radkowsky:

202.234.3278

michael@personalgrowthzone.com
www.personalgrowthzone.com