People with newly acquired extreme debt also reported having a higher percentage of stress induced illnesses than those without extreme debt.

A recently conducted AP-AOL Health Poll found that:

• 27 percent had ulcers or digestive tract problems, compared with 8 percent of those with low levels of debt stress.
• 44 percent had migraines or other headaches, compared with 15 percent.
• 29 percent suffered severe anxiety, compared with 4 percent.
• 23 percent had severe depression, compared with 4 percent.
• 6 percent reported heart attacks, double the rate for those with low debt stress.
• More than half, 51 percent, had muscle tension, including pain in the lower back. That compared with 31 percent of those with low levels of debt stress.

These people also reported having “more trouble focusing and sleeping,” and were also more likely to fly off the handle without provocation.

What you can do:

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, whether it be caused by debt, or caused by other stress related factors in your life, there are actions you can take to ease the pain:

• Cut out coffee and other caffeinated beverages.
• Exercise. You don’t have to run a marathon. Go for a walk, or wash the kitchen floor. If you’re more energetic, try a yoga class, or join the local gym.
• Meditate. I hate this one, never do it, but many are successful at it, and I hear it works wonders.
• Breathe. Often during a stressful situation, people “forget” to breathe. Consciously reminding yourself to do it can keep the oxygen flowing to your brain, and have a surprisingly calming effect. Slow, comfortable, deep breathes.
• Get Enough Sleep. A good night’s sleep can do wonders for the psyche. This can be a tough one to manage, especially if your worry genes are working in overdrive, or your burning the candle at both ends with an extra job.
• Reframing. One of the most powerful stress reducers, “reframing is changing the way you look at things so you can feel better about them.” e.g. - keep the cup half full rather than half empty.
• Keep your expectations realistic. or as my father used to say, “you can’t get water from a stone.”
• Make sure you take some time off. If you burn yourself out, you’ll only make matters worse. Strive to maintain balance in your life.

If this interests you, you may also want to check out “Having a Bad Hair Day? Four Stress-Relieving Tips.”

What are some ways you ease stress?

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