Economic Strain, Mental Health and Hidden Populations

Musiime Mushega

 

Despite seeing many positive shifts as we emerge from a global pandemic, increasing economic downturn proves a common trait of our current societal direction. In October 2022, the International Monetary Fund voiced that there has been a broad and sharp drop-in economic activity; with historic inflation rates over the past few decades and growth of living expenses restricting financial security. In this current context of rising inflation, heightened job precarity and increased expenses, many may find themselves in difficult financial situations. This economic hardship may sprout problems with psychological well-being, potentially appearing in forms such as anxiety, relationship issues and poor coping behaviours.

 

Strain on the Brain

During times of economic hardship, strain is often felt in a number of areas. Work instability may increase struggles to keep up with expenses. This in-turn can contribute to concerns about what lays ahead. Given our recent stint with COVID-19, it’s pretty clear stressful situations can take a toll on mental health. This area may not receive needed attention in times of economic hardship. Research notes this point in discussion of economic struggles and mental health’s effects. For instance, the health of a population correlates with social and economic events. This means periods of economic downturn or ascent will reflect different population health outcomes. Economic events could affect spending ability, the quality of life and thus, our health outcomes. Given the value of our mental-health to our well-being, it seems that more importance should be placed on it as we cope with economic instability. Prioritizing mental health ensures we are able to perform and feel the best we can while weathering the storm.

 

Economic Strain’s Toll

Research has compared variables on presence of mental health disorder, psychological well-being and substance related disorders in data pre and post economic down-turn. Here, the aim is to see if any differences exist in the two time frames. Data shows a clear trend toward times of economic hardship being accompanied by poorer mental health. The mentioned variables all have negative scores in times of post economic down-turn. These variables illustrate some of the potential outcomes faced by individuals in populations undergoing economic instability, making clear the value of interventions in such settings. For example, the discussed increase in substance abuse disorder is attributed to binge drinking; with overall alcohol use going down due to economic decline, but rates of binge drinking increasing due to stress.

 

Strain and Hidden Populations

Beyond the struggles of the general population discussed, I want to take a moment to focus on hidden populations. Economic strain may significantly harm those in already vulnerable positions. This may further present systemic inequalities. For example, research on the relationship between economic strain, young adult sexual minorities and heart disease risk factors found links between sexual minority status and financial hardship, but none between sexual minorities and presence of heart related risks. Given the higher risk for anxiety, depression and substance abuse amongst sexual minorities, financial strain works to create another set of issues. This financial strain may intersect with present struggles; compounding problems. Minorities exist in a number of areas, from sexual (as presented here) to racial or in terms of ability; making evident the possible depth economic strain can have for various minority populations. This breadth in minority form further validates the need for assisting such populations. Given the mental health outcomes of economic strain discussed, and the increased struggle faced by some populations, ensuring mental wellness in these groups during economic hardship is of clear importance. Mental health skills provide healthy coping and resilience tools to these populations, allowing them to encounter struggles well-equipped.

 

Take Away

Given the value of our mental health to wellbeing, it is important we take care of it, especially in difficult economic times. One way this can be achieved is through changing how we handle stressful events. Through awareness of healthy coping mechanisms, we can give ourselves access to better options when dealing with economic instability's effects on mental health. This use of healthy methods ensures related stress is alleviated in a manner that preserves our best interests. Some of these methods include…

-Maintaining a normal routine

-Taking care of your body

• Take deep breaths when stressed

• Eat a balanced diet

• Exercise

• Get plenty of sleep

-Talking to others

-Avoiding drugs and alcohol

-Recognizing when you may need more help

Word Count: 711

Flesch-Kincaid: 11.4

References

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DOI: 10.3109/09540261.2015.1083949