Coping with the Federal Furlough
This has been a stressful month for many local families. In times of prolonged stress, successful coping includes strategies to manage both the logistical and the emotional components of the problem. Start with strategies that address the part of the problem (logistical/emotional) that feels most urgent to you, but don’t forget to circle back and handle the other half afterward. Here are our tips for making it through without a shutdown meltdown.
Stay in the here and now. Resist the temptation to project how long the problem will last and address the needs of the moment.
Use safety net resources. That’s what they’re for! Click here for a list of resources specific to Montgomery County residents.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Many credit card companies are extending payment deadlines for furloughed workers. Your mortgage lender, child care provider, and even your therapist may be willing to make alternate payment arrangements during this time. (Yes, we will.)
Give yourself a sense of purpose. Set a goal for yourself and use the extra time to reach it faster. Volunteer. Furlough your children and spend the day together.
Get creative. Play “Chopped” with the ingredients in your pantry to make a low cost dinner. Recycle something you have into something you need. Trade your usual trip to the trampoline park for the pillow fort of a lifetime.
Seize the opportunity to grow closer to others. Talk openly about what you’re going through to those close to you. You may discover you’re truly not alone!
Manage the stress together as a family. Remember that this is something happening to you all, and none of you caused it. Team up with your partner and brainstorm solutions. Your children will come out of it with a powerful lesson in handling setbacks.
If the emotions do get the best of you, reach out. Your therapist is here to talk you through the tougher moments. The Montgomery County Hotline is also available at 301-738-2255 or www.crisischat.org and the Crisis Center is accessible via drop in at 1301 Piccard Drive in Rockville or at 240-777-4000.