Final answer:
During a recession, people can worsen the situation by excessively reducing spending and not seeking assistance, which can lead to a deeper economic downturn and increased unemployment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The worst thing people can do during an economic recession is to drastically cut back on all spending and not seek or accept assistance. Such actions can exacerbate an already fragile economic situation. For example, during the Great Recession of 2008-2009, consumer spending declined sharply, which further impacted businesses and increased unemployment.
Mass layoffs and decreased expenditures were significant issues, leading to intervention by Congress and the Federal Reserve through initiatives like the American Restoration and Recovery Act. These actions aimed to stabilize the economy and assist those affected by the recession.