In Stressful Times, Take Good Care of Yourself

USA Today published a thoughtful op-ed by Marc Siegel, an associate professor of medicine at New York University School of Medicine. In "Don't Let the Economy Kill You," Siegel notes:

A survey by the American Psychological Association indicated that financial concerns "topped the list of stressors for at least 80% of those surveyed," according to last week's front-page story in [USA Today]. More than half reported the most common symptoms of stress being anger, fatigue and an inability to sleep. Close to half responded by overeating or eating poorly, a trend that will definitely lead to killer diseases that include heart attacks and strokes.

Later in the piece, he adds:

Though stress in society at large is impossible to measure, we're already seeing anecdotal evidence suggesting that angst is spreading. In New York, calls to the Hopeline network for people with depression or suicidal thoughts increased 75% in the 11 months ending in July. And according to UnitedHealth Group, the largest U.S. health insurer, hospital admissions for psychiatric services are up 10% this year over last year. Medical illness is sure to follow.

Now, more than ever, it's important to take care of one's health and watch for signs of depression among our friends and family members and co-workers. When signs of depression appear, it's critical to acknowledge them. The economic factors causing people to experience so much stress in their lives are real. Let's not ignore how they impact our health.