MARCH 2008

the DOCTOR is in
Economic recession can hurt minds, too BY DUNIA KARANA ZEBARI, PH.D
Most of us have been
discussing concerns
with today’s struggling
local economy. It is quite disheartening,
for example, to see
some of our great minds graduate
from our state colleges
and universities only to have to
seek work outside of Michigan.
This state’s economic
woes continue to have ramifications
for businesses in retail,
restaurants, real estate, personal
care and entertainment. And it
doesn’t just affect our bank accounts
— financial struggles can be a real
challenge to our mental wellbeing.
Imagine a father, the sole caretaker
of his wife and children, either losing
his job or seeing his business significantly
slow down. He may experience
many negative reactions including feelings
of anxiety, low or depressed mood,
feelings of guilt, helplessness and a
decline in self-esteem and self-worth.
Moreover, these changes in mood
and feelings will likely affect this man’s
DUNIA
KARANA
ZEBARI,
PH.D
relationship with his wife and
children. A typical disagreement
(which most couples
experience in their marriage)
that often gets resolved rather
quickly might escalate into
something more serious, since
the husband’s stressors hinder
his ability to effectively communicate
and solve marital issues.
Furthermore, his children
will likely feel their father’s
uneasiness and change in
mood and they might in turn experience
psychological distress. I recently
conducted a psychological evaluation
for a school-aged girl who was performing
significantly below her grade
level. I concluded that the girl’s poor
school performance is a result of
ongoing stress at home related to
financial insecurity as well as the
resulting marital conflict.
These examples depict some of the
reactions and ripple effects that people
may experience during significant economic
decline. It is important to know
that these reactions are common. But
while feelings of helplessness, a
depressed mood and anxiety are often
temporary and short-lasting, in some
cases these symptoms may be prolonged
and can lead to more serious
psychological problems.
Environmental stressors such as
economic recession can be a trigger to
a psychological disorder, especially if
there has been a family history of problems
such as major depressive disorder
and anxiety. These stressors may
also trigger issues that have not been
worked through or a disorder in remission
— such as alcohol and drug
dependence — may resurface due to
these environmental stressors.
Dunia Karana Zebari, Ph.D., is a practicing
clinical psychologist specializing in
assessment and psychotherapy with children,
adolescents and adults. She is especially
interested in families requiring special
attention during crises such as divorce and
parental loss. Call (248) 594-5979, ext.
23, or e-mail info@psychassets.com.
MANAGE THOSE
STRESSORS
Try these tips, but remember: It is
important to seek professional
consultation when you feel that
your problems have persisted for
several weeks or more.
• Find ways to relax your mind
and body — something as simple
as sitting down and taking a deep
breath can help manage some of
the stress.
• Attempt to get a good night’s
sleep. People who are able to
sleep six to eight hours a night
consistently report a rested body,
less stressed mind and an
improved ability to solve problems.
• Plan time to talk with loved ones
or concerned people in your community;
these people can help you
sort through your thoughts and
emotions.
54 CHALDEAN NEWS MARCH 2008