Experts help with recession depression

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The recent shootings in Philadelphia and in Binghamton have one thing in common. The suspects in both cases had apparently lost their jobs.

Here in Indianapolis, experts are seeing an increasing number of people who have lost their jobs and doctors are trying to help them deal with the pressure of economic hardship.

Within the last couple of weeks, we've see the pictures from Binghamton, Pittsburgh and across the country; people killed in shooting sprees. Criminologists believe that when the economy plummets people feel desperate. Psychologists are seeing an increase in their workloads. Dr. Jacqueline Reynolds says she has more appointments scheduled because people need her help.

"Folks will say I'm really stressed, I'm worried about losing my job or I have lost my job, this is affecting my marriage," Dr. Reynolds said.

She said when someone loses a job, it's easy to lose hope. The control that comes with a job is lost and depression sets in.

"So what I try to do is getting them focused (on) what can I do today, what can I do within 2 weeks, what within the next month and certainly work with them from a behavioral perspective. These are the goals I can at least set this month," Dr. Reynolds said.

Other goals should include updating the resume, attending networking events, getting on a regular sleep schedule even getting some exercise.

"I think sticking with an exercise program and that's where people say oh you're kidding me, this sounds so basic and it is. But when we take care of our physical health then it can be a buffer against some of the emotional stuff that can happen," Dr. Reynolds explained.

Experts also suggest to seek help from family and friends. That type of support group can help many people during a difficult time.