This article series addresses questions from emails. Today’s topic is “Coping With Financial and Health Stress”.

Anthony from Brooklyn, New York writes: Dear Ellen Anmuth, Psychotherapist: I am a waiter, and have to share an apartment with another guy, because I cannot afford a rental on my own. I am 21 years old, and wish I could afford my own place. I would like to go to school at night, to get a BA in Criminology, but I do not know how I could afford it. Any ideas how to cope with this stress and worry? I am having trouble sleeping.

Ellen Anmuth, Psychotherapist: Anthony, I can understand how financial stress can affect your life. However, the positive that I read in your email is that you have a desire to go to school to study Criminology. Have you identified a school that you would like to attend? In the New York City area, there are likely many colleges that offer that training. Perhaps you could contact the Admissions Office, and inquire about any student advisory services that may be able to help. In addition, there are usually financial aid departments, who may know of scholarships to help you get through school.

Regarding your sleep problems, anxiety and depression can cause sleep disturbances. If you contact the Social Services Department of any local hospital, they will be able to provide a list of agencies that offer counseling at a sliding scale to help you learn to manage the stress more effectively. I know many people who have had jobs and have also gone to school at night. As a waiter, perhaps you could attend day classes, and wait tables at night? If you are creative and flexible, you can create a schedule that works well for you. Keep the vision of your goal, and that will help you through the stressful moments. Also, if you contact Police Departments, they may have ideas of how you might find scholarships for your education.

Beverly in Colorado writes:  Dear Ellen Anmuth, Psychotherapist: I am trying to cope with an elderly mother who is declining. She is 72 years old, and is dealing with a new diagnosis of Leukemia. I am fearful of the course of this illness, and how I might cope with this, and be of help to her.

Ellen Anmuth, Psychotherapist:  Beverly, there is a national organization called “The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society”, and their website is LLS.org.  They provide information regarding  Leukemia and other blood cancers. Experts are available by phone who you could speak with to learn more about this disease. They also know about  community resources  to help you cope better with the stress of this illness in your family.  Good luck with this challenging issue. Make sure that if you are a caregiver of your Mom, you also find time to take care of yourself.