If you’re worried about money, you are not alone. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 72% of adults reported feeling stressed about money. However, the worry surrounding finances extends to teens and children as well. High school seniors worrying about the pricey fees of college, children choosing the cheapest food on the menu, and So whatever age you are, we are all in the same boat.
Defining Financial Stress
Financial stress refers to stress derived from anything relating to finances or money. It is one of the most common causes of stress in the world. Financial stress can be derived from a multitude of things: loss of a job, unexpected expenses, accumulating debt, foreseen expenses, or a combination of them.
What started as money can affect the physical and mental. For example, you may lose sleep, gain weight, turn to drugs and alcohol, or fall into depression. Financial stress can also create stress in relationships, often creating rifts between partners. The power money holds is scary but painstakingly true and present.
Therefore, the mindset may need to shift from alleviating financial stress to coping with it. Money is the powerhouse of the world and has been for centuries. If the stress cannot go away, it is beneficial to think about ways to lessen the stress or cope with it in healthy, sustainable ways.
Coping With Financial Stress
Finances are a burden, no doubt about it However, if you take these steps, it may lessen that burden for you.
Create extra sources of income
There are an array of unique ways to earn money on the Internet. However, be cautious of scams and your time. Otherwise, another source of income that is manageable can decrease financial stress that most likely stems from the feeling of not having enough money.
Organize your budget
Yes, it is a hassle, but taking time to declutter, check up on yourself, and reorganize your budget will help you in the long run. The more in control you are, the less stressed you feel.
Track your spending
This can also be a hassle, but tracking your spending can also create a sense of control and get your finances organized. You can have a clear, physical look at where your money is going, how much you spend on a daily/weekly basis, and find areas in which you can try reducing your spending for a more sustainable lifestyle.
Manage stress in other realms of life
Reducing stress through other changes in life can relieve some of the financial stress you are feeling. Eating a nutritious diet, sleeping adequately, moving your body, and taking time for self-care can all reduce stress levels.
Understand the debt cycle
“Understanding debt is the first step to getting yourself out of it.” As Dr. Scott writes, do your research, check interest rates, and pay off your debt. One study showed that you may be able to pay off your debt quicker if you start from the lowest debt and pay off one account at a time.
Find outside support
If you’ve tried all that you can do and still cannot find a way out of financial stress, try looking for professional help. Try calling your bank, utility company, and/or credit card company, who will most likely help curate an adequate payment plan. You could also seek professional care for mental health. Or, you could open up to a close person and gain support from them.
Conclusion
Like all types of stress, financial stress can take a toll on the physical, mental, and social. Monetary problems are something that the majority of people, at least once in their lives, will experience. Therefore, financial stress is nothing to be ashamed of. That being said, financial stress does not have to haunt your day-to-day forever. There are ways and steps you can take to reduce stress and make your life a little bit easier to live.
Writer: Isara Moriya
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This is very true and accurate.
Money controls lives and the world as a whole. We need to be very careful and strategic about our finances so it doesn't affect our lives.
Thank you Isara.