By Maribel Quiala, MSW, LCSW
 

	Introduction
	Money Worries
	Overcoming Stress

Introduction

Today’s families are under siege from societal pressures in addition to balancing an already tremendous amount of responsibility. The stress caused by these pressures and responsibilities can disrupt the stability of the family unit.

Keeping a roof over your head and food on the table has many American homes in crisis. The added stress in seemingly “normal” family situations, such as a child struggling with homework, a sibling who wants to stay out late, or a teen that won’t clean their room, can undermine the parents’ ability to promote family togetherness and maintain a healthy emotional environment. Single parent homes can be at even greater risk.

Money Worries

Economic issues that affect their commitment to remain stable as a family, can include:

1. Foreclosure
2. A spouse laid off and now staying home
3. A vacation eliminated due to limited funds
4. After-school program(s) eliminated due to budget cuts
5. Preparation for college
6. An elder parent
7. Caregiving issues
8. Decision to support parents so they can continue to live autonomously
9. Geographical differences

The list is endless and unique to the family dynamics already at work in the home. One thing is certain; the attitude and reaction of the parent(s) in stressful situations sets the bar for family problem-solving.

Overcoming Stress

Key factors to overcoming these stressors:

1. Get help in how to communicate more effectively (Tone vs. Message being implied) There are many on-line resources and books on effective communication.
2. Listening skills – let the other person speak to you without interruption.   In response, tell them what you heard them say and comment on these points.
3. Develop empathy – being able to put yourself in another’s shoes
4. No impulsive decision-making—give yourself time to consider other options.
5. Outdoor activities…exercise/spending more time together, walking as a family, for example.
6. Ask yourself, “How do we spend time together during meals? Do we watch TV or do we set time to eat together?”
7. Reduce individual computer time. Children sent to their rooms to play on the computer, father at the computer in the living room, mother on her laptop in her room are costly behaviors…the cost being isolation.
8. Know what the child in the next room is playing, watching or doing on the computer. Cyber-bullying is a serious and growing problem for today’s youth.   Speak with your children about this openly and emphasize the importance of letting you know if they are a victim or even a participant in this behavior.
9. Keep your home clean and organized. Clutter can cause tension, stress, confusion and discord within the family unit.   Cleaning and organizing can be a family project with positive rewards.   Having your house in order creates an atmosphere of security and promotes a pleasing and harmonious lifestyle.
10. Maintain a balanced diet. Do not consume an excess of caffeine/sugars.
11. Get enough sleep. Not getting enough sleep affects our ability to process the next day.

Applying just a few of these suggestions can help to keep the effects of stress on the family as a whole in check.   The example you set as a parent will allow each member of your family to discover and evolve their own set of problem-solving and stress-reducing skills.

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