Stress and crime

Originally I wanted to address "stress" and mental illness as the subjects of my blog, but I have tended to write about the stress of our economy and the political aspects contributing to this stress.

Recently, I have noticed an increase in violent crimes in my city and state, and have wondered if the stress related to the economy, loss of jobs, and a general sense of hopelessness has caused this increase in violent crime.

If a person is on the edge anyway, due to stress and/or mental illness, it wouldn't take a lot more to push him or her into a desperate act. Unfortunately many of the victims of these desperate acts are the people closest to that person.

Sometimes it is hard to see tomorrow as looking any brighter than today. Mental health professionals are quick to point out that things will always change. It isn't always easy to see that change coming, especially if you need a change for the better.

Why can some people recover from setbacks faster than others? Support from family and friends is helpful but doesn't always work. Losing a sense of control of your life can be the worst part for most people. Gaining back that control is essential in gaining back your self esteem so that you can get on with life.

The following may help if you have that feeling of loss of control:
1. Get help from a mental health professional
2. Find someone who can listen...spouse, friend, pastor, sister or brother
3. Seek out others in your same profession
4. Seek out others with similar interests such as in a club or hobby
5. Check out your local city and state resources
6. Get into the habit of getting up, getting out...do not sit at home
7. Get enough rest and eat a healthy diet...exercise...take a walk
8. Know that you are not alone

Stress can cause many changes in your body and mind. Carefully evaluate your situation and keep your head up. Accept help if you need it. Don't allow the stress of life to get you down. And especially, keep your cool and don't take out your stress on the ones closest to you.