When times are tough, don’t despair. It is possible to change the way you see things, and expert help is always at hand…
Looking back over recent headlines you could be forgiven for thinking the world is about to come crashing to an end. The only uncertainty seems to be what we will ruin first — the economy or the environment.
Amid all this doom and gloom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless. And those feelings are magnified if you’ve been directly affected by the worldwide economic crisis, as an increasing number of us are.
“Financial problems are a significant source of concern for many Australians,” says Caroline Doherty, spokesperson for Crisis Support Services (CSS), a not-for-profit organisation that offers counselling to people under pressure. “Of all the calls we receive, financial worries are the second most common, after relationship problems.”
CSS runs 10 free helplines, including Mensline Australia and the Beyond Blue information line, and professional counsellors answer every call.
“That’s what makes our service so valuable,” says Caroline. “We hear from people who are just having a bad day to those who are a suicide risk. Our counsellors assess each one and determine what help they need.”
But can you help yourself see things differently too? Yes, says Dr Dianne Vella-Brodrick, senior lecturer in psychology at Monash University in Melbourne. She specialises in Positive Psychology (PP), a field that focuses on how changing the way you think can affect your happiness and satisfaction with life.
“There are many different pathways to happiness,” she says. “Some are transient and simple — such as the act of eating a slice of cake. Too often we assume money will make us happy, but research shows this is not true. If you are experiencing severe poverty it will obviously affect your quality of life, but if you have food to eat and a roof over your head, you have all the makings of happiness.”
Discuss your risk with your family. Depressing media reports can leave you feeling more worried than is necessary.
Limit the amount of time you spend reading about the financial crisis.
Be wary of placing blame for your financial situation on your partner. You’re in this together.
Discuss with your partner what would make you feel secure. Is it paying the bills early, saving money for a rainy day, or having a cupboard full of food? Make these necessities a priority.
Talk to friends — it’s a relief to know you’re not alone.
For birthdays and special occasions, focus on ‘doing’ gifts — spend time building a tree house with your kids or help your little one make their favourite superhero costume.
We live in a beautiful country, so get out there and enjoy it! Hikes, days at the beach and bush walks are all inexpensive.
Timeshare your skills with others. Are you a good cook? Invite friends round for a cooking lesson to fill an evening. Is your partner into the Great Outdoors? Have them arrange an expedition.
Donate time to charity. It’s a fulfilling pastime that helps combat the consumer side of the festive season.
