Our mental health is wired to respond to the stresses of life, such as a divorce, an accident or a family bereavement and still have the natural ability to come back to calm, and yet being in debt can become a seemingly inescapable mental monster.
The greater our financial strain, the more likely we are to experience the symptoms of depression, anxiety, hopelessness and ill-health. Debt is extremely bad for our health, from the amount of time we spend worrying about it, to the feeling of there is nothing we can do about it.
There are some things though, we can do better, to manage our debt stress.
1- Focus on the now
Focus on today, not tomorrow and not yesterday. Debt can freeze you into not taking action, thinking about the future and the endless loop of imaginary outcomes can lead to increased stress levels. While thinking about the past, what you should of, could of done, can just lead you into depression.
However hard it is, focus on today and take the necessary steps to improve your situation right now, even taking baby steps can help lead your mind out of debt stress.
2 – A positive mindset
Be honest with yourself and own your choices. Burying your head in the sand won’t make the debt go away or get you anywhere. Taking responsibility for the here and now will have a powerful impact on your mindset, motivating you into action, rather than the negativity of staying still and feeling sorry for yourself.
3 – Stay active
Wether it is for fun or relaxation, take time out during the day to focus on your wellbeing, wether through meditation, yoga or sports. Exercise can have a powerful effect on our mind as well as our body, releasing chemicals in our brain that help us de-stress, and feel good.
Exercise doesn’t have to cost you money either, even a brisk walk can do wonders for your mental anxiety.
4 – Understand finance
Try to learn more about finance, having information is a powerful tool that will boost your self confidence. Learn as much as you can from what is APR on credit to speaking with creditors. Having the knowledge that you know what you are doing will greatly help lower your stress levels.
The internet is a wealth of information on how to control finances and ultimately pay back your debt.
5 – Get Support
You may think you are alone, but there are millions of people affected by debt, so don’t hold it in, speak to friends and family, you might be surprised at how many people are willing to help. There are charities and organisations that can help with the stresses of debt, and also help you manage your money better.
Debt doesn’t have to be a solitary experience, get help and feel less stressed.