Dealing With Stress

By Tori Toth

Are you feeling stressed about your financial future? Well, you're not alone. A recent poll conducted by CNN suggests 8 out of 10 Americans are feeling anxiety over their bottom line, but after talking to many Long Islanders about this week's downward spiral on Wall Street, that statistic seems low. Inside Empress Diner on Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow--many customers watched the stock ticker fluctuate as they ate lunch. Mario Venezia of Levittown said, "Whether your stressed or not there is nothing you can do to change it [the stock market]."

And while that's true, the Nassau County Medical Center Chief Psychologist that I spoke to says you can change your behavior. "They're having terrible fears they won't be able to pay their bills. It's causing tremendous anxiety and pressure," explained Dr. Jason Kornrich. Kornrich says he used to treat patients with relationship problems, but now nearly half of his out-patients are seeking advise on stress.

Watching the stock roller coaster can cause mental, emotional and physical strain because you have no control over your money. Kornrich advises don't watch the market all day long--he suggests tuning in for only a half an hour (not the best advice for my industry). But, regardless of how much time you're watching t.v., it's hard to escape the fear when its all around you.

Kornrich says to avoid added stress stick to your daily routine and stay busy, use deep breathing techniques, find a relaxing hobby, and participate in activities like reading and exercise. He says the key is to LIVE your life and find things that are relaxing to keep your mind at ease.

When I visited Massage Envy on Jericho Turnpike in Commack they told me the company specializes in stress management. Massage therapist, Laura Duffy says treating yourself to a rub actually boosts the body's immune system. Massages also lowers heart rate and blood pressure, relaxes muscles and increases endorphins--all problematic symptoms that are brought on by stress. For more information on cheap massages log onto www.massageenvy.com.

My stress reliever--a tea from Starbucks and a long bike ride. But if that doesn't help you--the best advice I've heard all day is reverse your thinking--use this crisis as an opportunity to grow.