How the Economy Is Affecting Our Health
Dr. Mark Rogovin does not need the news to see how the economy affects people. He sees it every day in his Boynton Beach family practice.
Patients arrive feeling exhausted even after sleeping all night. Many report rashes with no clear cause. Others struggle to sleep or eat properly. Some eat too much, while others lose their appetite.
Many patients feel overwhelmed. Some openly admit stress causes their symptoms. Others fear they have a serious illness. In most cases, the issue is stress.
Why Stress Is a Serious Problem
Stress is not always harmful. In the past, it helped humans survive danger. It triggered a “fight or flight” response. The body released adrenaline and increased heart rate and strength.
This response worked best in short bursts. Today’s stress works differently. Financial worries do not fade quickly. Fear of job loss, bills, or housing can last for months or years.
Long-term stress harms the body. Research clearly shows this.
How Stress Affects the Body
Doctors across South Florida report similar complaints. Patients struggle with sleep problems, dizziness, heart palpitations, and fatigue.
Others report stomach issues, back pain, and rising blood pressure. Stress can also weaken the immune system.
A Harvard Medical School report found stress may interfere with immune function. While stress does not cause cancer, it may affect how the body responds to illness.
Research Links Stress and Health Problems
A 2008 AARP study found that 20% of adults over 45 had health issues linked to financial stress. Many delayed seeing a doctor because of cost.
Baby Boomers showed the highest stress levels related to money. Younger adults reported stress too, but older adults felt stronger health effects.
Another study found fear of job loss caused worse health outcomes than job loss itself.
Identifying the Source of Stress
Doctors encourage patients to first identify their stress triggers. Dr. Charles Metzger uses a stress inventory questionnaire. It asks about sleep, mood, and enjoyment of life.
Patients also keep journals. Writing helps them understand emotions and gain control. Often, small issues cause major stress.
Dr. Mujahed Ahmed notes that many people believe they are coping well. In reality, stress builds quietly and shows up physically.
Practical Ways to Reduce Stress
Doctors recommend small but meaningful routine changes.
Go to bed earlier, even by 30 minutes
Walk or exercise for at least half an hour
Eat balanced meals and rest properly
Ask for help when needed
Relaxation techniques also help. These include meditation, yoga, massage, and breathing exercises.
Why Managing Stress Matters
Stress has serious health effects. Researchers compare its impact to smoking. Chronic stress raises the risk of long-term illness.
Everyone reacts differently, but warning signs are common.
Debt Stress and Health Risks
A survey by the Associated Press and AOL found strong links between debt stress and illness. People with high debt stress reported migraines, ulcers, anxiety, depression, and heart problems.
At the time, nearly 14 million Americans faced serious health issues linked to debt stress.
Final Thoughts
Stress may feel invisible, but its effects are real. Chronic financial stress harms both body and mind.
Identifying stress early and making small changes can protect your health. Managing stress is not optional—it is essential.
