Feeling Depressed About the Downturn?
In the Long Run, the Recession May Improve Quality of Life
Nov 2, 2009
Worrying about money can be scary and depressing. Trying to make ends meet creates feelings of guilt, erodes self-confidence, and depletes inner resources.
So it's not surprising that worry due to the recession leads to feelings of depression. But some believe that, with the exception of more serious cases, depression is not necessarily a bad thing.
What's So Good About Feeling Depressed?
According to experts, depression is biologically adaptive, a mental “red flag.” Psychiatrist Jerome Wakefield, of New York University explains that sadness or melancholy helps people learn from mistakes. In fact, some experts believe that depression plays an important role in "normal" people.
The key learning is that, if not blunted by pills or other means of suppressing emotion, depression can enable the sufferer to cope better and lead to greater achievements in the long run. So those who feel depressed can take heart: Something better is on the way!
Quality of Life in a Recession
Quality of life usually refers to the good life by virtue of having "made it," and having possessions that reflect that success. But lack of material possessions can lead to another definition of wealth.
An October 30, 2009 article, Miral Fahmy reported heartening news in that regard. In a global survey, about a quarter of respondents felt that the economic slump had "permanently changed their attitudes about money" and "helped them realize their priorities in life."
Among the Malaysians who participated in the survey, many indicated that the poor economy had reinforced family values and a sense of gratitude.
Closer to home, John Przybys reported that residents of Nevada eat at home with the family more since the recession, and that membership in the Southern Nevada Baha'i community has grown. As noted by a member of that community, Adela Nelson: "When we can't get our emotional cravings satisfied through materialism, then people start to look inward."
The Recession: How To Make Good Use of It
Virtually no one likes change, especially when it is foisted upon them. But once change is inevitable, as is the case with an economic recession, there is good that can sprout from the experience. Here are some ways to take advantage of that change and flourish in the long run:
- Simplify. A recession is a good time to get rid of clutter. And that includes everything from cleaning out the closet, to watching less T.V., to losing unwanted pounds. Suze Orman, who hosts a T.V. show about managing one’s finances, maintains that clutter and debt are associated. Those whose lives are more streamlined are happier and have fewer money problems. And they enjoy more free time to spend on more enjoyable or self-affirming activities.
- "Follow your bliss" is the advice of the philosopher Joseph Campbell in his acclaimed book, The Power of Myth. Finding one's passion and purpose in life is a way of recognizing the wealth of inner resources that are unique to each individual. What could be more important than that?
- Consider choosing a new career. Those who have been laid off may be doing just that. But it’s good for anyone who feels unfulfilled in life to reassess their career decisions: “Is this the career I really wanted?” "What about my desire to write?""Become a nurse?" Sometimes people end up in jobs they hate out of need or circumstance. Now is not necessarily the time to switch jobs. But it may be a time to consider long-range plans for finding more rewarding work.
- Stay connected. Family, friends, religious communities, and the like provide “soft places” to fall. Talking about fears make the depressed feel less isolated, open them up to more ideas and solutions, and make problems seem less insurmountable. And it works both ways: Helping others is a way of helping oneself.
- Slow down and exercise. Meditation, yoga, or other means of being mindful provide a means of relaxation and self-discovery. Exercise not only keeps the body in shape, but more vigorous exercise, such as jogging, releases endorphins that enhance mood and give one a sense of well-being and even (at least intermittently), glimmers of hope.
Many trials and tribulations result from a recession, but that difficult experience can give rise to a better way of life in the long run. Everyone has resources that don't become apparent until the need becomes great. Those who make the most of those resources can become empowered.
Saving money, drawing closer to others, and creating a sense of purpose in life are among the things anyone can do to weather the recession and come out ahead at the end. And what works best are the things that don't have a price tag.
Readers may also enjoy learning about poetry as a source of empowerment during a recession.
Sources:
- Fahmy, Miral (October 30, 2009). "Thank heavens for the downturn? Some people think so." Singapore (Reuters).
- Przybys, John (Sep. 27, 2009)."Class not dismissed: Recession forces Americans to reconsider meaning of money." Las Vegas Review-Journal
- Campbell, Joseph (June 1991). "The Power of Myth" Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
