News 12 First at Five, October 10, 2008

Augusta, Ga.--- From the pump to the register we're all feeling the pinch. And it's not just affecting our wallets, it's affecting our health.

"We see people that have their house foreclosed, we see people that have lost their jobs. All this, these are severe stressors. Everybody's in some level of stress. Some people feel it more," MCG Health psychiatrist, Dr. Erick Messias said.

Doctor Erick Messias, a psychiatrist with MCG Health says for some people it can be too much especially those who already have anxiety, depression, or substance abuse problems. He says someone who is already on the edge can be pushed by the extra stress from the economy. Messias says the best advice he gives his patients is don't panic and don't change your routine, talk to people and look for social support. Or professional support like a financial advisor. Ted Mclyman works with Waddel and Reed in Augusta. He says the biggest trend he sees right now is people are afraid.

"In behavioral economics which is what we follow, people fear loss, more than they feel good about gain," Financial Advisor, Ted Mclyman said.

Mclyman says a lot of the things he's seeing are self imposed.

"Try to cut the clutter out, the static, all this stuff thats bombarding you and it just antagonizes the behavior, and makes you feel worse about your circumstances. Try to get away from that. Go run, go do something. Stay with people you enjoy being with. Don't fixate on this stuff," Mclyman said.