David Baxter PhD
Late Founder
U.S. sets up recession mental-health Web site
Dayton Business Journal
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Uncle Sam wants you to pay attention to possible signs of depression caused by the collapsing economy.
The U.S. government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has set up a web site called A Guide to Getting Through Tough Economic Times.
It details health risks from layoffs, foreclosures and other economic turmoil, risks such as depression, anxiety and compulsions such as over-eating or gambling. The site also gives tips for managing stress and links to hotlines or centers for help with drugs and alcohol abuse or preventing suicide.
For managing stress, the site advises people to strive for a hopeful attitude towards the future, to stay connected to family and friends, and to exercise.
It lists warning signs for suicide and encourages people to seek help immediately if they or someone they know seems to be at risk.
A special note to journalists links to suggestions from the Annenberg Public Policy Center about responsible and non-sensational coverage of suicides. Lurid media reports of suicides can lead to copycat suicides, the site warns.
Dayton Business Journal
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Uncle Sam wants you to pay attention to possible signs of depression caused by the collapsing economy.
The U.S. government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has set up a web site called A Guide to Getting Through Tough Economic Times.
It details health risks from layoffs, foreclosures and other economic turmoil, risks such as depression, anxiety and compulsions such as over-eating or gambling. The site also gives tips for managing stress and links to hotlines or centers for help with drugs and alcohol abuse or preventing suicide.
For managing stress, the site advises people to strive for a hopeful attitude towards the future, to stay connected to family and friends, and to exercise.
It lists warning signs for suicide and encourages people to seek help immediately if they or someone they know seems to be at risk.
A special note to journalists links to suggestions from the Annenberg Public Policy Center about responsible and non-sensational coverage of suicides. Lurid media reports of suicides can lead to copycat suicides, the site warns.
