Financial Stress and Mental Health

Lee Hartman March 4, 2023February 19, 2024 anxiety, depression, financial stress, kansas, mental health, topeka, valeo, wellness

If you find yourself constantly worried about money, you are not alone. Many people are impacted by financial stress. There is a strong connection between mental health and financial health that many people may not realize. Common financial stressors may be:

Food
Housing
Transportation
Medical bills
Loss of work
Escalating debt
Unexpected expenses

It can be challenging to meet the needs for a stable, overall healthy quality of life when financial stressors arise. Extensive research shows the connection between financial stress and mental health. People who already have a mental illness may struggle with handling their money due to managing, spending, and asking for help. Any overwhelming stress can create a snowball effect and turn into something much bigger. This elevated level of stress can lead to mental health issues such as:

Anxiety
Depression
Fatigue
Insomnia
Weight gain or loss
Substance misuse
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

Here are tips on how to manage financial stress and your mental health:

Talk to Someone

When in a financial situation, it can be easy to bottle everything up and try to get through it alone. Family, friends, or your community can be a helpful resource for emotional support. The people around you may have ways to problem-solve and provide advice. They may have even been through the same situation. This can help ease the burden and make sense of what you are facing.

Track and Manage your Finances

Denying the reality of your financial issues may only make the situation worse. There are many websites and apps that can help keep track of your finances. This will help get a clearer idea of where you stand with what you are spending. Tracking your finances will help you gain control of the situation.

Ask for Help

There are many free counseling organizations either through your bank or depending on where you live. If your financial stress becomes unmanageable and is impacting your mental health, reach out for mental health support. You are not alone when it comes to financial stress. Don’t be afraid to seek help for yourself or someone you love.

Valeo’s Crisis Center is located at 400 SW Oakley Avenue. Valeo’s Crisis Center never closes, it is a walk-in emergency clinic with no appointment necessary. Valeo’s 24-Hour Crisis Line is 785-234-3300.

If someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 connection to free, confidential support. Call or Text 988.

Valeo Behavioral Health Care

785-233-1730

Crisis Services

400 SW Oakley, Topeka, KS 66606

24 Hour Crisis Line: 785-234-3300

National Suicide Prevention Life Line

1-800-273-8255

Shawnee County Suicide Prevention Coalition

SCSPC.org

Family Service and Guidance Center (18 and under)

325 SW Frazier, Topeka, KS 66606

24 Hour Crisis Number: 785-232-5005