Preventing Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorders During Tough Economic Times

Research shows that extreme stress—whether it´s a natural disaster or an economic recession—can have a major impact on mental health and substance use disorders. That´s why the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released an online guide that provides practical advice on addressing emotional health issues related to the economic hard times. Experts say coalitions can play a role in helping people during these stressful times.

The “Getting Through Tough Economic Times” guide, available at www.samhsa.gov/economy/, provides practical advice on identifying health concerns, developing coping skills and finding help. Developed by SAMHSA in collaboration with other government agencies and the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, the guide outlines the risks that unemployment and other forms of economic distress (foreclosure, severe financial losses, etc.) can pose to health.

Dr. Loretta Novince, a developmental psychologist with the Ohio-based Northeast Community Challenge Coalition, said severe stress can lead to anxiety and depression and make individuals more susceptible to drug and alcohol use.

“Any type of stressful event, such as our current economic crisis or a job loss, can impact family members. Prolonged and chronic stress can often cause an individual to become overwhelmed and lack coping skills, which can increase the vulnerability to alcohol and other drug use. It can also lead to relapse,” Dr. Novince explained.

According to SAMHSA’s guide, although economic problems may affect individuals differently, for many people economic hardship contributes to increased risk for a variety of conditions including:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Compulsive Behaviors (over-eating, excessive gambling, spending, etc.)
• Substance abuse

Dr. Novince said coalitions can play an important role in times like these. “Coalitions can provide a supportive role during these uncertain times, providing mental health resources, or holding seminars on things like coping skills, stress reduction and financial planning. Since coalitions know what services are available in the community, they can refer people to the necessary resources and support services that people need,” she said.

The guide also provides practical steps that can be used to get through these tough periods and achieve restored health and productivity. In particular the guide provides:
• Important information on identifying the warning signs of depression, suicidal thinking and other serious mental illnesses.
• Effective steps to help manage emotional distress, such as through exercise, strengthening connections with family and friends, and developing new job skills.
• Resources for getting help – such as the National Mental Health Information Center for information on where to access help on a wide range of mental illnesses, and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for those in crisis. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is operated by SAMHSA’s grantee Link2HealthSolutions, Inc, under a cooperative agreement.

“The guide is a quick and easy tool that people can use to better manage their emotional wellbeing,” said SAMHSA Acting Administrator Eric Broderick, D.D.S., M.P.H. “By helping people remain resilient, we can help promote the overall recovery of our nation.”