Right now it seems like all eyes are on the economy. News pundits, TV mouthpieces and even our presidential candidates are calling this “the greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression.” That remains to be seen, but what you should focus on is not sinking into your own “great depression” as the stock market continues its rollercoaster ride. A recent APA poll found that the stress of the current economic situation is having a greater effect on women. Getting panicked, however, isn’t going to do you one ounce of good. Things may appear crazy right now, but there’s no reason for you to be.

Tone down the News Junkie-ism

It’s great that you keep up on the news daily but there is a breaking point, especially when the economy is all anyone can talk about 24 hours a day. Give yourself a break. Resist the temptation to turn on the news or Google “economy woes” now and then. Right now no one knows what will happen next and that’s probably the most frightening thing. But remember, you receiving minute to minute updates is not going to improve the economic situation.

Want to Know How Sound Work Is? Talk to Your Boss

If you are really worried about your job and the solvency of your company, have a frank talk with your boss. Ask them how business is doing and what’s expected for the future. You’ll probably find that everything is fine and the hysteria has not reached your field of work. Like we said before, not knowing is the scariest thing, so find out.

Keep Your Routines

It’s common for people who get stressed to drop their regular habits and patterns. Maybe you don’t feel like going to yoga class as much anymore. Perhaps you aren’t eating your normal healthy diet and find yourself gorging on “comfort food.” Taking care of yourself is the first and most important step in managing stress. You shouldn’t punish yourself for circumstances out of your control. So live your life, just like you always have.

Be Proactive

It might make you feel better to watch your own finances. Maybe you already do, but if you’re like most of us, you can be pretty lax until that one time a month you pay the bills. If so, sit down and honestly look at what you spend each month. Include babysitters, entertainment costs and such. Then see what you can do to tighten up your budget. No, this won’t turn this crisis around, but at least you’ll feel better for being on top of your own financial situation.

Remember what’s Important

Got family? Got friends? Great, stick with them. Nothing helps you in a stressful time like the love of those around you. Crazy times come and go, but family and friends are here to stay.