Recession or Depression? What matters is how YOU feel!

One thing for sure, economically we may be in a recession and virtually everyone in South West Florida has been affected in some way. But what I am seeing more and more a overall physical malaise overtaking our beautiful area.

Sure the economy is in the tank, that is given. Our Real Estate markets are playing Filene's basement. And the cure for this is going to be a long and bumpy road. So what can you do you may ask?

Well you may not be able to fix the economy, solely on your own. But you can work on fixing your own personal depression. Here are a few tips to help you keep your chin up and stress levels down. Whether you are unemployed or not here are a few things that will help you get out of the doldrums.

• Exercise - after all we have the time to do it now.
• Go to the library - Amazing place, don't just go to the book shelves and leave. Explore you will be astounded at what you may find
• Volunteer - Get involved with an organization that will appreciate your help. Voluntarism goes a long way towards increasing the feel good chemicals in your brain.
• Increase your intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil or Flax seed supplements really help!
• No job to go too today, hop on the bus and go somewhere, anywhere. Take the bus to the beach, or to the park downtown. And just enjoy.
• Visit your friends or neighbors. It is well documents that those who have close friendships live longer and happier. Don't have any friends, maybe you should check out the self-help section at the Library.
• Get a Pet, if you can afford one. It's hard to stay depressed when there is someone else there that needs feeding, walking and loving.
• Put candles on the dinner table tonight and dine, even if it is macaroni and cheese.

I'm sure I could go on and on. But by working on our own selves we may help the overall malaise of the country and ultimately uplift our economy by feeling good again...

Kathleen "Kat" Bryce
State Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser RD-4424
Fort Myers, FL
Email: appraiserkat@earthlink.net
Phone: 239-940-2225
Fax 239-275-4130