Social and economic crises

The psychological impact of social and economic crises is often less visible than a disaster. There is no sudden destruction; instead there is ongoing uncertainty, an inability to plan the future and a sense of “there is nothing I can do”.

Financial hardship, unemployment and debt are among the strongest social determinants of mental health. These crises do not affect everyone equally: low-income households, migrants, older people living alone and single-parent families are more vulnerable.

Epidemics and periods of social tension likewise weaken social ties — yet in these periods those very ties are the most protective factor.

• Constant worry, hopelessness about the future
• Sleep problems and persistent fatigue
• Tension at home, impatience, more arguments
• Shame or a sense of failure; avoiding asking for help
• Withdrawing from people, losing interest in things once enjoyed

Prolonged stress wears down body and mind; these reactions are not a personal failing but a result of how heavy the circumstances are.

• Focus on the small areas you can control: daily routine, sleep, short walks.
• Break the problem into parts; look into official advice and social services for debt, work or housing.
• Talk with your family in age-appropriate language — without hiding the situation from children, but without burdening them.
• Keep up social ties; asking for help is not a weakness.
• Limit the news feed; stay away from sources that increase uncertainty.

• Reactions last longer than four weeks or keep getting worse
• Daily tasks — work, school, caring for children — have become impossible
• Use of alcohol, medication or other substances has increased
• The person is completely withdrawing and not talking to anyone
• There are thoughts of harming oneself or others — in this case, without waiting