Professional Advice on Staying Positive

Posted: August 14, 2009 by Don Tyler
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Professional Advice on Staying Positive: A couple of weeks ago when Ned Arthur and I recorded some podcasts for SwineCast, we mentioned that I am not a professional therapist or counselor. When working with clients I often provide some very personal guidance when asked, and use practical experience and logic to help them determine answers to their questions and concerns. I thought it might be good to hear from a professional on the challenge of “Keeping a positive outlook when under financial stress.”

Angeline Brechlin; APN, CNS is a career mental health professional and a lifelong friend of my wife and I. Here are her thoughts on staying positive:
  • Look at the positives that you do have such as your health, family, supportive friends, etc. Even with the economy the way it is right now, look at what you do have as well as the strengths/skills that you possess and can use in dealing with tough situations.
  • Find positive ways to deal with stress such as exercise, proper nutrition, etc. instead of turning to alcohol or other substances to make you feel better. Also to be sure and get adequate amounts of sleep. If you’re not sleeping well, it’s difficult to feel good about anything.
  • Definitely find someone to talk with who is a positive influence and supportive… someone to bounce ideas off of and problem solve with—not someone who is going to tell you what to do—but rather who will help you in developing your own options.
  • Prioritizing your tasks and having a life balance (work/family/playtime) is important – there has to be a balance between work and family/relaxation.
  • If you are having problems with depression, seeking professional assistance may be needed to get you “over the hump” and feeling better. It could be going to a counselor, your primary care provider, or a mental health professional for medications. Support groups can also be beneficial.
Angie adds, "The key thing is that you have to want to do something and then to try some different things to see what works. It can be difficult to even make small changes when feeling depressed and in a rut. Also, change is uncomfortable and scary for most people – they would rather continue doing what they’ve been doing—even if it’s not working—than make changes in their routine, especially when it comes to jobs and relationships." Sounds like great advice….Thanks Angie! (Angeline Brechlin; Advanced Practice Nurse [APN], Clinical Nurse Specialist [CNS])

Don Tyler; Tyler & Associates
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