Managing Financial Stress Presented by: Robin Huskey, LCSW, CEAP, Manager of Education and Outreach, FSAP (404) 727-WELL

Financial Stress

Impact of Financial Stress Physical Emotions Family Job

Objectives To learn the FOCUS model: strategies for managing financial stress more effectively To identify resources for support

Strategies for Managing Financial Stress Manage the Stress … or the stress will manage you.

Strategies for Managing Financial Stress F ace your fears O bserve yourself C reate opportunities U tilize resources S hare your action plan

F ace Your Fears Recognize and normalize your emotions Accept uncertainty and change Monitor the fight-flight response Communicate your concerns Write down your challenges

O bserve Yourself Challenge your negative thinking Practice positive behaviors Minimize media exposure Keep life in perspective Stay in the moment

Create Opportunities: Self Care Maintain healthy eating and sleeping habits Exercise regularly Practice relaxation, meditation, prayer, and positive affirmations Enhance your organizational and professional skills Make time to play – play is a state of mind!

Create Opportunities: Financial Care Budget, budget, budget Eat out less – pack a lunch; make dinner and take leftovers Offer handmade gifts, personalized coupons, e-cards Plan free or inexpensive family activities and vacations

U tilize Resources “Sparkfly” Discount Program Fitness facility discounts The WorkLife Resource Center Emory & the Economy FAQ’s the-economy/index.html the-economy/index.html

U tilize Resources Emory Alliance Credit Union – Member Express Emergency Loan Emory Hardship Fund Zero-Tier or low cost medications rescriptiondrugs/index.html Free or subsidized alternative transportation services

U tilize Resources FSAP - counseling and coaching Workshops - financial education, stress management Community resources Online budgeting tools – ( Family, friends, colleagues, advisors

S hare Your Plan Put your FOCUS plan in writing and make copies! Communicate your plan to others Ask others to help hold you accountable

FOCUS ! F ace your fears O bserve yourself C reate opportunities U tilize resources S hare your action plan

Start Your FOCUS Plan Today Focus Plan goals Potential Barriers to success Strategies to overcome barriers One strategy you plan to start today

Questions