It’s hard to miss the headlines in the news concerning the economic turmoil in this country; only weeks away from what may be the most important presidential election in history. There are many important issues in this election, healthcare being one that is on the top of my list.
Peoples’ lives have changed, that has left them confused, frustrated and hopeless. We feel out of control, disempowered. It’s a vicious cycle that we’ve fallen into: Job loss leads to loss of health insurance. Health insurance costs have gone up dramatically and most cannot afford it on their own. People looking for other work have found that they are not qualified, can’t afford to go back to school, or that companies are not willing (due to time and money) to train new people. Some people have settled to be on a “temp” list in which the hours (and paychecks) are unpredictable and again is not supplemented with health benefits. Many of these individuals are helping out their elderly parents with medical bills and other expenses and now need help themselves to pay for food, mortgage and other bills. This vicious cycle is going on all over America. Where did this land of hope and opportunity go?
I think it’s still here, deep within all of us. The paradigm has shifted from one of dependence on government subsidies to one of self- responsibility. Lets face it…I’m not counting on a social security check in the future, are you?
One thing I have always encouraged my patients to do is to help them find their own answers. Each one of us needs to participate in our own health care, and that starts with prevention. We have to take care of ourselves and not depend on others to “bail” us out. We can’t depend on our government or politicians to “fix” it for us. We ned to pick ourselves up and not fall victim to what’s happening around us. Is it affecting us? Absolutely! But we need to get through each day and take charge of our health, our money, our planet and our future.
Empower Thyself!
Technorati Tags:
health, wellness, women’s health, womens health