The unemployment rate is currently at one of the highest levels it's been in our nation's history.
Reports of a worsening economy pound the airwaves. Retirement savings disappear in the blink of an eye and everyone seems to be waiting for the other shoe to drop. Amidst the swarm of depressing news and stress it can be difficult to stay healthy, and even harder to keep the work environment positive and productive.
"Our physical health can be affected by our attitude and it's connected to our emotional well being," said Dr. Mary Capelli-Schellpfeffer, medical director of Loyola University Health System's Occupational Health Services. "If you start feeling ill, pay attention to your symptoms, they could be the result of stress.
Common problems include trouble sleeping, difficulty paying attention and feeling thirsty."
To help keep you on the right track Dr. Mary Capelli-Schellpfeffer has some suggestions:
- Keep track of positive things that happened during the day and replay those in your mind when negative thoughts intrude.
- Stay connected with people you care about. Support each other. Let them help you and give back to them as well.
- Good habits in good times are good habits in bad times. Watch what you eat, get at least seven hours of sleep, and keep exercising.
"Often when we're stressed we get distracted and stop exercising, lose track of our diet and don't go to the doctor. During these times it's even more important to attend to our basic health care needs. This allows you to be your most successful when dealing with stress," said Dr. Mary Capelli-Schellpfeffer.
In a hurting economy comfort foods and fast food restaurants are often the cuisine of choice, but just because funds are tight doesn't mean your pants have to be too.
"As a registered dietitian who loves to cook, I have learned there are ways you can save money while maintaining a healthy diet," said Gina Bucciferro, clinical dietitian at Loyola University Health System.
Here are a few of her tips for hitting the grocery store: