The United States is not in a recession yet but there are indications that we could be headed that way. According to a ABC News survey almost 70% of economists believe that a recession will begin in the next year.

A recession is not a good thing for mental health. A recession raises everyone’s stress level. People are more concerned if they will keep their jobs, how their retirement accounts are doing, and their housing situation. This concern leads to higher anxiety and depression.

Will a recession create a mental health crisis?

The University of Alberta performed a study that related job loss to increased risk of mood disorder by 22%. Not only are negative moods more prevalent, the study also found that major depressive episodes went up 1.2 to 5.8 times.

Lets Zoom Out

What will a mental health crisis look like?

1. Most likely an increase in suicides and attempts
2. An increase in prescribed drugs
3. An increase in illegal drug use
4. A spiraling situation for vulnerable parts of the population
5. People you know may retreat from many social situations

What can we do to stay in a good mind space-

1. Physical exercise
2. Mental exercise
3. Emotional exercise
4. Focus on things you can control
5. Start a new hobby
6. Make new friends
7. Contact old friends
8. Check on family members health

I am not a doctor but my favorite tactic to stay in a good mind space is to focus on the things I can control. Then I try and do something nice for someone else.