You do not have to look far to see the effects our economy is having on the lives of Americans. What may not be so apparent are the potentially life-threatening effects economic hardship can have on the immune system of those that are chronically ill. There is a definite relationship between health and economy. For the chronically ill population, a rough economy means more than just watching their pocketbooks.
Everyone is stressed out due to economic troubles. Prices are high and, for millions of Americans, jobs are very hard to keep, much less find. But if you are chronically ill, you have the additional effect of stress and all that comes with it. This can mean anything from an increase in the degree or frequency of your symptoms, to sleep loss, to an increase in using junk food as a coping mechanism. All of these can have life-threatening effects on your immune system, which in turn can cause your illness to worsen.
You can regain control of your health during these
hard times by following these tips:
1. Eat more whole foods. This will counter the effects of any cravings you may experience as a result of coping with stress.
2. Lean on your support circle. Now is the perfect time to wrap yourself in your support circle. Confiding in friends, family or other chronic illness sufferers will help you get through these difficult times.
3. Consider increasing your supplements. This holds true especially if you are taking something that helps you deal with stress. You may find that you need a little extra boost to counter the negative effects on your body.
4. Spend time with yourself. Having a support circle is great, but do not forget to spend time with yourself doing things that you enjoy. There are many things that do not cost anything. Take a bubble bath. Read a book. Go to a park. Treat yourself with kindness.
5. Breathe. As simple as it sounds, you would be surprised of how much regular deep breathing can help regulate your body.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, you must try to avoid unnecessary stress and depression; that will only make your condition worse. View these tough times as an exercise in learning how to cope. Eat more whole foods, lean on your support circle, spend more time with yourself, and set aside time to breathe deeply and relax each day. Your symptoms may not improve, but if you keep your stress level under control, then your symptoms will not get any worse.
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