Hey there, fellow warriors navigating the storm of the 2023 recession. If you’re anything like me, a mom with four energetic sons to feed, clothe, and care for, you’ve probably felt the weight of financial stress pressing down on you. But what people rarely talk about is how this pressure cooker of emotions can lead to some unexpected physical reactions – like the hair-pulling dance I’ve found myself doing.
I have done really well to get this condition under control but lately, I’m buckling under the stress of it. I can’t even go to the grocery store without it costing me a minimum of $40-50 and I really don’t have shit in my cart, to be honest.
The Weight of Financial Stress:
Let’s be real – the struggle to keep our families afloat during these uncertain times is no joke. It’s not just about the bills and the budget; it’s about the sleepless nights and the constant worry, the sinking feeling in your stomach that never seems to go away. And for some of us, myself included, that stress isn’t content to stay in our minds; it makes its way to our fingertips, and before you know it, we’re caught up in the act of hair-pulling. When I’m up at night worrying, I’m pulling.
Hair-Pulling as a Coping Mechanism:
Now, I’m no stranger to stress, but this recession brought out a side of me I never knew existed. Trichotillomania – yeah, that’s the clinical term for it – became my silent companion during those moments when I felt like I was drowning in responsibilities. And if you’ve found yourself absentmindedly twirling your hair or tugging at it, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
My Personal Struggle:
I’m trying to stretch every dollar, worrying about job stability, and watching my sons grow up amid all this uncertainty. My oldest son starts college next year, I’m sitting here trying to figure it all out along with all the other responsibilities that I have.
It’s enough to make anyone feel like they’re on the brink. And in those moments, I found myself with my fingers tangled in my hair, a coping mechanism I’d never experienced before this recession hit our lives.
Breaking the Stigma:
Here’s the thing – pulling at your hair isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a signal that, like the rest of us, you’re grappling with more than just the numbers in your bank account. It’s a cry for understanding and support, something we could all use a bit more of these days.
5 Coping Strategies for Financial Stress & Trichotillomania:
So, what can we do to survive the storm with our sanity intact?
- Lean on Loved Ones: I cannot stress this enough! Share your fears and frustrations with someone you trust. Sometimes, just getting it off your chest can make a world of difference. I’m grateful enough to have a husband with a super positive outlook on everything and it’s his strength, his outlook that helps me through.
- Awareness: Stay aware of what you’re doing. For me, I use my HabitAware bracelets during the day, and at night, I’m still struggling, I’m not going to lie. Nighttime has always been my worst enemy because I struggle to not pull when I’m tired.
- Budget with Heart: Sure, we’re all tightening our belts, but don’t forget to leave room for a little joy. Small treats and indulgences can make the journey more bearable.
- Self-Care Moments: Take time for yourself, even if it’s just a few stolen moments. Whether it’s a quick walk, a favorite hobby, or a good book, make sure to prioritize your well-being.
- Professional Help: If the weight on your shoulders becomes too much, there’s no shame in seeking help from a mental health professional. They’re there to guide us through the storms.
As we all weather the challenges of the 2023 recession, let’s remember that we’re not alone in this journey. By opening up about our struggles and supporting one another, we can break down the stigma surrounding both financial hardships and the quirky ways we cope. So, here’s to finding strength in our vulnerabilities and navigating this storm together, one hair at a time.
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