In this episode of Shed The Debt, host Pattie Lovett-Reid sits down with Dr. Marla Shapiro, CTV’s medical expert, to explore the intersection of health and economics. As the world grapples with financial uncertainties, the effects on mental health have become undeniable. Dr. Shapiro delves into how the stress of economic instability is impacting Canadians’ physical and emotional well-being, providing valuable insights on how to cope.
The Growing Anxiety
Dr. Shapiro begins by acknowledging the widespread anxiety many Canadians are feeling today. She shares that, in her medical practice, it’s become routine for patients to express their worries. From older adults concerned about fixed incomes to younger individuals anxious about job stability, mortgage rates, and future opportunities, the stress is affecting people of all ages.
The uncertainty surrounding global events, national issues, and personal financial circumstances has reached a point where Dr. Shapiro describes it as “maxed out.” The emotional burden has led to increased anxiety, making it harder for many to manage daily life.
Stress and Its Impact on Health
While most people are familiar with the emotional symptoms of stress, Dr. Shapiro points out the less obvious, physical effects. Chronic stress leads to an increase in cortisol levels, which, in turn, can disrupt sleep patterns, heighten anxiety, and even contribute to more serious health conditions like cardiovascular disease. Dr. Shapiro explains that high levels of stress leave individuals with a diminished ability to cope with new challenges, making them more reactive and less patient. It’s not just about feeling stressed; it’s about how it can quickly escalate into health risks that are harder to manage.
Breaking the Anxiety Cycle
Dr. Shapiro stresses the importance of recognizing and controlling what we can in times of overwhelming uncertainty. She advises focusing on managing anxiety by taking actionable steps to regain control, such as:
- Acknowledging the Stress: Recognize the sources of your anxiety and accept that it’s a natural response to uncertainty.
- Seeking Help: Reach out to professionals for guidance, whether it’s a financial advisor or a mental health expert. A clear plan can help reduce feelings of helplessness.
- Controlling What You Can: While you can’t control global events, you can control how you respond to them. Prioritize your mental health, whether it’s through physical activity, social support, or setting limits on news consumption.
- Taking Action: Dr. Shapiro emphasizes the value of having a concrete plan, especially when it comes to financial uncertainties. Having a financial plan and talking to an advisor can provide a sense of stability and help reduce anxiety.
Moving Forward with Resilience
The key takeaway from Dr. Shapiro’s advice is simple: Take control of what you can, and let go of what you can’t. She also stresses the importance of shedding the emotional burden that anxiety brings—whether it’s anger, fear, or frustration. Just like shedding financial debt, shedding emotional baggage is necessary for maintaining mental health during stressful times.
Dr. Shapiro offers a compassionate reminder that it’s okay to ask for help and take care of oneself, mentally and physically, in the face of ongoing uncertainty. She also suggests that those dealing with anxiety related to financial issues seek professional guidance to build a stable financial future and reduce the stress that can lead to a medical crisis.
In the end, Dr. Shapiro underscores the value of regaining control in an uncontrollable environment, whether it’s through emotional support, financial planning, or simply taking steps to protect your mental health.