Stress reduction: Why you need to get a grip and how

It damages the body, contributing to heart disease, diabetes and more. In these economic times, it's also a fact of life. Here's how to protect yourself. Stocks are falling. Companies are handing out pink slips. Home values are collapsing. Financial icons are folding. ¶ And Americans' stress is rising. ¶ The 2008 Stress in America survey, conducted by the American Psychological Assn. and released in October, found that stress levels have increased significantly over the last two years, particularly in the last six months. Money and the economy top the list of concerns. ¶ Among 2,500 participants from across the country, 81% said money was a significant cause of stress, up from 73% in 2007 and 59% in 2006. Worries about other economic issues also increased. Between April and October, worries about work jumped from 62% to 67%; concerns over housing costs rose from 56% to 62%; and job stability woes increased from 48% to 56%. Meanwhile, consumer confidence plummeted to 38.8 points in October (the lowest since the index began in 1967, though it rose slightly in November). ¶ As the economy plummets and stress levels soar, people need to find ways to manage their stress -- or more than their investments will suffer. ¶ Chronic unresolved stress weakens the immune system, increasing our susceptibility to infections such as common colds and other viruses. And when stress increases, so does inflammation, contributing to stroke, arthritis, Type 2 diabetes, periodontal disease and frailty. Additionally, studies have shown, the cumulative effects of unresolved psychological stress contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure.

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