How to manage stress amid SNAP benefit cuts, health professionals weigh in

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WOWK) — With the government shutdown cutting off SNAP benefits, the idea of not being able to put food on the table is starting to weigh on people.

Mental Health Professional and CHH Counseling Center Manager Christie Eastman says lack of money and food insecurity can cause high levels of stress and anxiety.

One single mother, who prefers to remain anonymous, says she relies on the resource to buy groceries and is currently dealing with the anxiety that comes with the uncertainty.

Eastman says while they don’t have a permanent solution to the problem, there are ways to keep stress levels down.

“That’s really normal. It’s your nervous system saying we need to pay more attention to this. We need to do something, to change, and we’ve gotta be prepared,” Eastman said. “We wanna get up and do something. We want to use a lot of energy toward fixing the problem. To head it off at the pass, whatever you do that helps you feel more at ease, just a few minutes of that can really help bring us back from charging into high-level emotion.”

Calming activities can include listening to music you like, taking deep breaths in and out, taking a moment to enjoy nature, or anything that gives you a sense of peace and relaxation.

Health professionals say that after you take a moment to focus on your mental health, you’ll be better equipped to address any problems ahead.