The Latest Research on Resilience

What We Now Know about Being Resilient

Life is an unpredictable journey filled with challenges and adversities. How we respond to these challenges speaks volumes about our resilience – the remarkable ability to bounce back, adapt, and thrive in the face of adversity. Resilience is a multifaceted concept that has captured the attention of researchers across various fields. In this blog, we'll define resilience and explore the intriguing investigations that researchers are conducting to better understand and harness its power.

Defining Resilience

Resilience can be described as the psychological, emotional, and behavioral capacity to navigate through life's challenges, setbacks, and adversities while maintaining overall well-being. It's not about avoiding difficulties, but rather about developing the inner strength and skills necessary to recover and grow from them. Resilience doesn't mean being unaffected by negative events; instead, it's about one's ability to cope, adapt, and even find opportunities for growth in the midst of difficulties.

Key Aspects of Resilience

1. Adaptability: Resilience involves the capacity to adapt to changing circumstances and learn from experiences. This adaptability enables individuals to adjust their mindset and actions according to the challenges they face.

2. Positive Outlook: Maintaining a positive outlook and cultivating optimism can foster resilience. A hopeful perspective can provide the motivation needed to overcome obstacles and find solutions.

3. Social Support: Building and nurturing a strong support network is essential for resilience. Having people to lean on during tough times provides emotional validation, perspective, and practical assistance.

4. Emotional Regulation: Resilient individuals are skilled at managing their emotions effectively. This involves recognizing, understanding, and appropriately expressing their feelings rather than suppressing or being overwhelmed by them.

5. Problem-Solving Skills: Resilience is closely tied to the ability to solve problems. Individuals who can identify solutions and take constructive actions in the face of challenges are better equipped to bounce back.

Ongoing Research on Resilience

Researchers from various fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and sociology, are continually investigating the intricacies of resilience. Here are some fascinating areas of research:

1. Neurobiological Underpinnings: Neuroscientists are exploring the brain's role in resilience, examining how neural pathways, neurotransmitters, and brain structures contribute to an individual's ability to cope with stress and recover from adversity.

2. Early Childhood Development: Psychologists are focusing on the role of early experiences in shaping resilience. Adverse childhood experiences can have long-lasting effects, but positive relationships and environments during childhood can foster resilience and mitigate potential negative impacts.

3. Trauma and Post-Traumatic Growth: The study of trauma has led to the discovery of post-traumatic growth – the phenomenon where individuals emerge from traumatic experiences with newfound strengths and a deeper appreciation for life.

4. Cultural and Societal Factors: Resilience is influenced by cultural norms, societal support systems, and economic conditions. Researchers are investigating how these factors interact to influence an individual's ability to bounce back from adversity.

5. Interventions/Strategies: Psychologists are developing strategies to enhance resilience at various stages of life. These strategies encompass cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, and therapeutic approaches to help individuals develop resilience skills.

Resilience is a dynamic and vital quality that empowers individuals to navigate life's challenges with strength and grace. Researchers are committed to unraveling its complexities, shedding light on the neurobiological, psychological, and social mechanisms that contribute to resilience. As our understanding of resilience deepens, we have the opportunity to develop effective interventions and strategies that can help individuals cultivate this invaluable trait, leading to improved mental well-being and a more resilient society as a whole.

Greg Roussett NP, PhD is a doctorally prepared, board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, depression, and treats clients holistically. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with severe anxiety disorders and who experience PTSD as a result of complex trauma. To book a free consultation, click here.

Celebrate You! Happy International Self-Care Day!

Celebrating International Self-Care Day: Nurturing Mind, Body, and Soul

In a fast-paced world that often leaves us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, the importance of self-care cannot be overstated. In recent years, the concept of self-care has gained significant traction, prompting people worldwide to prioritize their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. As we embrace this growing movement, it's crucial to understand the roots of International Self-Care Day, how it originated, and why it holds such immense importance in our lives.

How did International Self-Care Day Originate?

The genesis of International Self-Care Day can be traced back to 2011 when the International Self-Care Foundation (ISF) was established. The organization aimed to promote and advance self-care practices globally, recognizing their significance in preventing illness, improving health outcomes, and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. In 2019, the ISF designated July 24th as International Self-Care Day, creating an annual opportunity for individuals and communities to focus on nurturing their well-being.

Why July 24th? This date was chosen as a symbolic reminder that self-care is not selfish but rather an essential aspect of life, akin to the instructions you receive during a flight safety briefing: "Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others." By taking care of ourselves first, we can better care for those around us.

Importance of International Self-Care Day

1. Raising Awareness: International Self-Care Day serves as a powerful platform to raise awareness about the significance of self-care. It urges individuals to consider their well-being as a priority and helps dispel the misconception that self-care is indulgent or a luxury reserved for special occasions.

2. Empowering Individuals: Engaging in self-care empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their health. By adopting healthier habits and coping mechanisms, people can enhance their overall quality of life and resilience in the face of challenges.

3. Reducing Healthcare Burden: The promotion of self-care practices contributes to reducing the burden on healthcare systems. By preventing avoidable health issues through proactive self-care, the strain on medical resources can be alleviated, allowing healthcare providers to focus on more critical cases.

4. Enhancing Mental Health: Self-care is not limited to physical well-being; it also encompasses mental and emotional health. Taking time to rest, engage in hobbies, or seek support when needed can lead to reduced stress levels and improved mental clarity.

5. Fostering a Holistic Approach: International Self-Care Day encourages a holistic approach to health, recognizing that the mind, body, and soul are interconnected. Emphasizing this interconnectedness helps people acknowledge the importance of addressing all aspects of their well-being.

6. Building Resilience: Engaging in self-care practices builds resilience, allowing individuals to bounce back from setbacks and face life's challenges with a more positive outlook.

7. Promoting Self-Compassion: International Self-Care Day emphasizes self-compassion and self-acceptance. It encourages individuals to be kinder to themselves, reducing feelings of guilt or inadequacy often associated with taking time for personal care.

Five Easy Ways to Practice Self-Care Today:

Title: 5 Easy Tips for Embracing Self-Care: Nurturing Your Well-Being Made Simple

In our fast-paced and hectic lives, we often neglect to prioritize our own well-being. However, engaging in self-care is essential for maintaining balance, reducing stress, and fostering a positive outlook on life. While it may seem challenging to find time for self-care amidst our daily responsibilities, incorporating small yet meaningful practices into our routines can make a significant difference. Here are five easy tips to help you embrace self-care and cultivate a happier, healthier you.

1. Carve Out "Me Time" Daily

One of the simplest and most effective ways to engage in self-care is by setting aside dedicated "me time" every day. Even if it's just 15 minutes, this time is entirely yours to do something that brings you joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading a book, practicing mindfulness or meditation, going for a walk, or enjoying a soothing cup of tea, "me time" allows you to recharge and reconnect with yourself amidst the chaos of everyday life.

2. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Sleep is a fundamental aspect of self-care, as it directly impacts our physical and mental well-being. Make a conscious effort to prioritize quality sleep by establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. Limit screen time before bed, dim the lights, and engage in calming activities to prepare your mind and body for restorative sleep. You'll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day with renewed energy.

3. Move Your Body Regularly

Engaging in regular physical activity is not only beneficial for your physical health but also plays a significant role in your emotional well-being. Find an exercise or activity that you enjoy, whether it's dancing, yoga, cycling, or simply going for a walk. Physical movement releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones, which can help alleviate stress and boost your mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week and notice the positive impact it has on your overall well-being.

4. Connect with Nature

Spending time in nature has a calming and rejuvenating effect on the mind and body. Whenever possible, take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors. Go for a hike, have a picnic in the park, or simply sit by a tranquil lake. Connecting with nature provides an opportunity to slow down, gain perspective, and experience a sense of peace that is often hard to find in the urban chaos.

5. Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude is a powerful way to shift your focus from what's lacking in your life to what you already have. Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for, no matter how big or small they may be. Keeping a gratitude journal or sharing your gratitude with a loved one can help reinforce this positive mindset. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude fosters contentment and enhances your overall sense of well-being.

Embracing self-care doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. By incorporating these five easy tips into your daily routine, you can nurture your well-being and experience the transformative power of self-care. Remember that taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for leading a fulfilling and balanced life. Start small, be consistent, and watch as these simple practices create a positive ripple effect in every aspect of your life. You deserve to prioritize yourself and make self-care an integral part of your journey to a healthier and happier you.

Greg Roussett NP is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, depression, and treats clients holistically. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and insomnia. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. To book a free consultation, click here.

The Flexible Mind: How to Increase Neuroplasticity and Why This is Important

Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity are two crucial concepts in the field of neuroscience that are integral to our understanding of how the brain functions and changes over time.

Neurogenesis refers to the process of generating new neurons in the brain. This process primarily occurs in the hippocampus, a region of the brain that is responsible for learning and memory. While it was once believed that the brain stopped producing new neurons after childhood, recent research has shown that neurogenesis continues throughout adulthood. This is important because it allows the brain to adapt to new experiences and to repair itself after injury or disease.

Neuroplasticity, on the other hand, refers to the brain's ability to change and reorganize itself over time. This process occurs in response to experience and learning, and it involves changes in the strength and structure of connections between neurons. Neuroplasticity is what allows the brain to learn and adapt to new situations, and it is critical for recovery from injury or disease.

Both neurogenesis and neuroplasticity are important because they help the brain to adapt to new situations, learn new skills, and recover from damage. By increasing our understanding of these concepts, we can develop new treatments and interventions for conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, traumatic brain injury, and stroke.

There are many factors that can influence neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, including exercise, nutrition, stress, and sleep. For example, exercise has been shown to increase neurogenesis in the hippocampus, while chronic stress can impair neuroplasticity in the prefrontal cortex. Similarly, a healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants has been shown to promote neurogenesis and neuroplasticity.

Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity are two critical concepts in the field of neuroscience that help us to understand how the brain changes and adapts over time. By understanding the factors that influence these processes, we can develop new treatments and interventions to improve brain health and function.

Practical ways to enhance neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to change and adapt to new experiences, learn new skills, and recover from injury or disease. It is a crucial concept in the field of neuroscience because it underlies our ability to learn and adapt throughout life. Here are some ways to facilitate healthy neuroplasticity of the brain:

1. Engage in physical exercise: Exercise has been shown to increase neuroplasticity in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, a region of the brain important for learning and memory. Aerobic exercise, such as running or cycling, has been shown to increase the production of new neurons in the hippocampus, as well as improve cognitive function.

2. Learn new things!: I know this may sound simplistic. but learning new skills or engaging in new activities is a great way to promote neuroplasticity in the brain. Learning new things helps to create new neural connections, which strengthens existing connections and promotes the growth of new ones. This could include learning a new language, taking up a new hobby, or trying a new form of exercise.

3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation has been shown to increase neuroplasticity in the brain. This is thought to occur because mindfulness meditation can reduce stress, which can impair neuroplasticity. Mindfulness meditation has also been shown to increase the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus.

4. Get enough sleep: I cannot stress this enough. Sleep is essential for overall brain health, including neuroplasticity. During sleep, the brain consolidates memories and makes new connections between neurons. Lack of sleep or poor quality sleep can impair neuroplasticity and cognitive function.

5. Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats has been shown to promote neuroplasticity in the brain. Antioxidants, found in foods such as berries, can help to protect the brain from oxidative stress, while omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, can promote the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus.

Promoting healthy neuroplasticity is an important aspect of overall brain health. Engaging in physical exercise, learning new things, practicing mindfulness, getting enough sleep, and eating a healthy diet are all great ways to promote neuroplasticity and improve cognitive function. By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can help to keep our brains healthy and functioning at their best.

Greg Roussett NP is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, depression, and treats clients with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, insomnia, panic disorder, and depression. Book a complimentary consultation today here.

How You Can Embrace Spirituality Independent or With Religion, and its Effects on Mental Health

Spirituality is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been studied across various fields, including psychology, sociology, and philosophy. Although spirituality is often associated with religion, the two concepts are not synonymous, and it is important to understand the differences between them. In this blog post, we will define spirituality, discuss the differences between spirituality and religion, and review the latest research on the relationship between spirituality and mental health outcomes.

Defining Spirituality

Spirituality can be defined as the search for meaning and purpose in life, and the belief in something greater than oneself. It involves a sense of connection to something transcendent, whether it is God, the universe, or one's inner self. Spirituality can manifest in many different ways, including prayer, meditation, contemplation, and the pursuit of moral and ethical values.

Differences Between Spirituality and Religion

Although spirituality and religion are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Religion typically involves a set of organized beliefs, rituals, and practices that are shared by a group of people. Religion often provides a framework for understanding the nature of the universe, the purpose of life, and the relationship between individuals and the divine.

In contrast, spirituality is a more individualistic and subjective experience. It is often less structured than religion and does not necessarily involve membership in a particular group or adherence to specific beliefs or practices. Spirituality can be seen as a personal and ongoing search for meaning and purpose that is influenced by a variety of factors, including culture, family, and life experiences.

How Spirituality Improves Mental Health

Research has shown that spirituality can have a positive impact on mental health outcomes. Studies have found that individuals who are more spiritual are more resilient in the face of stress, have greater levels of life satisfaction and overall well-being, and have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Additionally, spirituality can provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are struggling with mental health challenges.

One study found that spirituality was associated with greater improvements in depression symptoms among individuals who received cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression (Beevers et al., 2015). Another study found that a group-based spirituality program was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among individuals with chronic pain (Lucchetti et al., 2015).

Spirituality is a complex and multifaceted concept that involves the search for meaning and purpose in life, and the belief in something greater than oneself. While spirituality and religion are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Research has shown that spirituality can have a positive impact on mental health outcomes, including greater resilience, life satisfaction, and lower rates of depression and anxiety. If you are interested in learning more about the relationship between spirituality and mental health, there are many resources available, including articles, books, and support groups.

Greg Roussett is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for ADHD, panic disorder, depression, other mood disorders, and insomnia. He reinforces resilience from latest research that has been conducted in his practice. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, insomnia, panic disorder, and depression. Book a complimentary consultation today here.

Why Is Resilience Important and How both Employees/Managers Can Nourish This State

Resilience is a term that has been used to describe the ability of an individual or a system to adapt and recover from difficult or challenging circumstances. While the concept of resilience has been around for many years, recent research has shed new light on what it means to be resilient, and how individuals can build and maintain resilience.

According to recent research, resilience is not just about bouncing back from difficult situations but also involves adapting to change and being able to grow and thrive in the face of adversity. Resilience is not a fixed trait that some people have and others lack; rather, it is a set of skills and behaviors that can be learned and developed over time.

There are several factors that have been identified as contributing to resilience. These include having a strong support network, having a sense of purpose and meaning in life, being able to regulate emotions effectively, having a positive outlook, and being able to find meaning and purpose in difficult situations.

One of the key ways that individuals can build resilience is by developing strong social connections. This can involve building a network of supportive friends and family members, as well as seeking out professional support when needed. Research has shown that people who have strong social connections are better able to cope with stress and are more resilient in the face of adversity.

Another important factor in building resilience is developing a sense of purpose and meaning in life. This can involve setting goals and working towards them, as well as finding activities and interests that provide a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Research has shown that people who have a strong sense of purpose and meaning in life are better able to cope with stress and are more resilient in the face of adversity.

In addition to these factors, there are several other strategies that individuals can use to build resilience. These include practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet, and seeking out opportunities for personal growth and development.

What Employees Can Do to Increase Resilience in the Work Force

Resilience is an essential skill for any employee to have in the workplace, and it is especially important for managers/employers to build resilience among their team members. A resilient team is better equipped to handle challenges, overcome obstacles, and maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity. Here are some strategies that managers can use to build resilience among team members:

1. Foster a Positive Work Environment: A positive work environment can help to build resilience among team members. Managers can create a positive work environment by being supportive, encouraging, and recognizing team members' achievements. A positive work environment also includes providing opportunities for employees to develop their skills, providing regular feedback, and recognizing and celebrating successes.

2. Encourage Open Communication: Open communication is critical for building resilience among team members. Managers should encourage their team members to speak up about any challenges they are facing, whether they are work-related or personal. By providing a safe and supportive environment for open communication, team members can receive the support they need to overcome challenges.

3. Provide Resources for Stress Management: Stress is a significant challenge in the workplace, and it can be a major obstacle to resilience. Managers can provide resources to help their team members manage stress, such as access to mental health resources, opportunities for exercise, and healthy snacks in the break room. By supporting the mental and physical health of team members, managers can help to build resilience and reduce the impact of stress.

4. Encourage Professional Development: Professional development can be a powerful tool for building resilience among team members. By providing opportunities for training, learning new skills, and taking on new challenges, managers can help their team members build confidence, develop their abilities, and gain a sense of accomplishment. This, in turn, can help them to become more resilient when faced with challenges.

5. Lead by Example: Finally, the most effective way to build resilience among team members is by leading by example. Managers should demonstrate resilience by facing challenges head-on, maintaining a positive attitude, and taking proactive steps to overcome obstacles. When team members see their managers exhibiting resilience, they are more likely to follow suit and develop their own resilience skills.

Latest Research on Resilience

Many psychologists and social behavioral scientists have been expanding what we know about resilience and how to tap into this state. "Building resilience in health care providers during a pandemic" by Shanafelt et al. (2021) - This article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the resilience of health care providers, and provides recommendations for building resilience in this population. Here are some recent articles that were published in reputable journals that have systematically reviewed research conducted on resiliency.

1. Ungar et al. (2021) - reviews the current research on resilience as a positive youth development construct, and identifies areas for future research.

2. Luthar et al. (2020) provides an overview of the concept of resilience in the context of aging, and reviews the evidence for factors that promote resilience in older adults.

3. Britt et al. (2020) reviews the current research on resilience and mental health outcomes among military service members and veterans, and identifies areas for future research.

4. Bolier et al. (2013) - This article provides a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of positive psychology interventions for building resilience, and identifies factors that contribute to their success.

Resilience is an important concept that involves adapting to change, growing and thriving in the face of adversity, and developing a set of skills and behaviors that can be learned and developed over time. By building strong social connections, developing a sense of purpose and meaning in life, and using a range of other strategies, individuals can build and maintain resilience and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives even in the face of difficult circumstances.

Greg Roussett is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for ADHD, panic disorder, depression, other mood disorders, and insomnia. He reinforces resilience from latest research that has been conducted in his practice. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, insomnia, panic disorder, and depression. Book a complimentary consultation today here.

What is a Tech Recession, and Effects on Mood and Functioning

The term "tech recession" is being tossed around more frequently these days. It refers to a period of stagnation or decline in the technology industry, which is often considered the driving force behind economic growth in the modern world. With recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing supply chain disruptions, some people are wondering if we are currently experiencing a tech recession. In this blog post, we'll examine this question and explore some of the factors that could be influencing the state of the tech industry while also considering the effects of a recession on mental health.

First, it's important to define what we mean by the term "tech recession." In general, a recession is defined as a period of economic decline characterized by a reduction in gross domestic product (GDP), employment, and income. A tech recession specifically refers to a downturn in the technology sector, which includes everything from hardware and software development to e-commerce and social media platforms.

So, are we currently in a tech recession? The answer is somewhat ambiguous. On one hand, there have been some signs of a slowdown in the tech industry. For example, in 2020, global technology spending declined by 1.1% due to the pandemic. Additionally, some tech companies have reported weaker-than-expected earnings in recent quarters, which could be a sign of broader economic challenges.

However, there are also many factors that suggest the tech industry is still thriving. For one, demand for technology products and services has remained high throughout the pandemic, as people have increasingly relied on digital tools to work, communicate, and shop from home. In fact, some segments of the tech industry have actually seen significant growth in the past year, such as cloud computing and cybersecurity.

Another factor that suggests the tech industry is still going strong is the significant amount of investment pouring into the sector. In 2020, global venture capital funding for tech startups reached a record high of $300 billion, indicating that investors are still bullish on the future of tech innovation.

If we are in a tech recession, what effects will it have on well-being? An economic recession can have a profound effect on the mental health of individuals, including depression. During a recession, many people experience job loss, financial difficulties, and increased stress levels. These factors can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness, which are all symptoms of depression.

Depression Rates

Research shows that the rate of depression increases during economic recessions. A recent systematic review found economic recessions are associated with an increase the rate of depression among individuals who lost their jobs. The studies found found that the risk of depression was higher among individuals who experienced long-term unemployment during a recession.

Effects on Anxiety

The economic recession can also cause anxiety, which is a feeling of worry or unease about the future. During a recession, people may worry about job security, paying bills, and providing for their families. These worries can lead to increased levels of anxiety, which can have a negative impact on mental health.

Research shows that the rate of anxiety increases during economic recessions. A study conducted during the 2008 economic recession found that the rate of anxiety increased by 40% among individuals who lost their jobs. Similarly, another study found that the risk of anxiety was higher among individuals who experienced long-term unemployment during a recession.

Overall Mood:

The economic recession can have an overall negative impact on mood. During a recession, people may experience a range of emotions, including fear, anger, and frustration. These emotions can lead to feelings of sadness and low mood.

Research shows that the rate of overall mood disturbances increases during economic recessions. A study conducted during the 2008 economic recession found that the rate of overall mood disturbances increased by 33% among individuals who lost their jobs. Similarly, another study found that the risk of overall mood disturbances was higher among individuals who experienced long-term unemployment during a recession.

Key points:

The economic recession can have a profound effect on mental health, particularly on depression, anxiety, and overall mood. During a recession, individuals may experience job loss, financial difficulties, and increased stress levels, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness. It is essential to seek support from mental health professionals during these difficult times to help manage the negative impact of a recession on mental health. Additionally, seeking support from loved ones, engaging in self-care activities, and staying connected to the community can also help alleviate the negative effects of a recession on mental health.

Greg Roussett is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for panic disorder, depression, and insomnia. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with insomnia, panic disorder, depression, and mood disorder. Book a complimentary consultation today here.