Is the Recession Hurting Your Health?

The recession could be having damaging effects on yourhealth.

When gloom hits the economic climate, the only thing we can think of is getting through, keeping our heads above the financial waterline. We struggle to pay our bills and keep a roof over our heads and everything else has to fall behind. When we hear news of the poor employment market and that companies aren’t hiring – that they’re shrinking, even – losing our job is the worst thing that could happen.

But even within our jobs, the recession can still have its insidious effect. As people are so desperate to keep their positions, they can feel more pressured and stressed to hold on. They may feel like they have to take on extra workloads to prove themselves, or have more work given to them because of others that have had to leave. This is especially affecting management and there has been a rise in depression and anxiety in those in mid-tier leading positions, including an increase in panic attacks.

This does not stop at this level, however. The stress and anxiety that these managers experience inevitably has a trickle-down effect onto the employees under them. There have been increased reports of authoritative and reactive styles of management which has affected how the staff feel about their own jobs and positions. The pressure from above only adds to their own worries, fears and struggles.

And yet even when ill, workers feel like they cannot take the time off. Either they do not want to seem weak or incapable of filling their role, or feel like they cannot miss time because they need the money. But jeopardising your health in such a way could lead to more health problems further along the line. This is especially true to those with chronic illnesses who may be waving aside regular appointments in order to keep up with work.

For people living in countries such as Ireland, where fees are incurred for medical care, people are having to compromise on what gets paid. For many, the mortgage and buying food is taking precedent over their health. But without health insurance or a medical care card they may be unable to afford the treatment. It can lead to a catch-22 situation where they need a job to pay medical bills but they may become too sick to work if they do not seek treatment.

Being financially stable in the current economic climate is something that everyone is worrying about but it should never compromise your health; it is the most important thing a person has.