Can the recession make you healthier?

When money gets tight, does our population fail to take care good of itself? When people lose jobs and homes, does it drive them to more actively entertain their personal vices? Do people in dire straits seek psychological satisfaction through increased usage of questionable means, or does a lack of ready funds make people more careful about their health? A recent article by health columnist Tara Parker-Pope, of The New York Times, points at these questions in the light of current economic realities.

Ms. Parker-Pope's article reveals the surprising conclusion that tough economic times can tend to improve health and well being. The truth, which might seem contrary to conventional wisdom, points to increased time with family and closer attention to personal needs, as the reasons that economic downturns might actually improve national health. The article explains how people in economic boom times place more focus on exploiting the booms, and less time on taking care of themselves. On the other hand, people in tough circumstances have more time to take a closer look at their communities, families and selves.