More women are turning to sex work in the bad economy. Strip clubs, X-rated Web cam companies and escort managers across the country have reported an increase in job applications in the last several months - ironically, at the same time that business is largely going down. ( Salon )
Healthcare without insurance is like construction without power tools. It can be done, but it will take longer and require a lot more effort. And at times you’ll feel like you’re hammering your thumb. ( Los Angeles Times )
Despite signs that the recession may be easing, the unemployment rate is projected to continue rising for another year before topping out in double digits, a prospect that threatens to slow growth and increase poverty. ( Washington Post )
The recession is taking a bite out of national brand loyalty in products ranging from Advil pain reliever and Green Giant frozen vegetables to Jif peanut butter. ( Reuters )
Could the recession result in a baby boom? Nielsen is reporting double-digit growth in ovulation-predictor kits and pregnancy tests across Canada. ( Calgary Herald ) But some people are also debating whether they can afford children now. ( Recessionwire )
Some people are handing over vintage toys, sets of dishes, baseball cards, furniture and clothes to auction houses and online auction sites hoping to generate cash. ( New York Daily News )
State governments are reeling from the recession and are beginning to make deep budget cuts to stanch the bleeding. ( New York Times )
Welfare roles are seeing a sharp increase. Twenty-three of the 30 largest states, which account for more than 88% of the nation’s total population, see welfare caseloads above year-ago levels. ( Wall Street Journal )
Deborah Siegel uses the experience of her laid-off husband to speculate on some of the changes men undergo after losing their jobs as a result of the recession. ( The Big Money )
Use of antidepressant medications has soared in the U.K. during the recession. ( Guardian )
