When you ask someone what causes most of their stress, a high percentage of people will say money is at the top of this list. People often worry about making ends meet, unexpected expenses that could be hard to afford, building for the future amongst other financial stresses. While some stress is ok, it is important to know that too much financial stress could actually be having a big impact on both your physical and mental wellbeing.
A Common Issue
In fact, a study revealed that 94% of UK employees worried about money and poor financial wellbeing was the number one cause of stress. Despite this, talking about money is considered somewhat taboo which can only make matters worse and make people feel more stressed (especially when they start comparing themselves to others).
Physical Health
It is common sense that financial stress can impact your mental health, but have you ever considered that it could have physical health repercussions too? Too much stress can lead to sleepless nights, which can cause all kinds of physical health issues. Chronic stress can also release hormones that can suppress immune, reproductive and digestive systems.
Not only this, but when people are stressed they often look to temporary and damaging solutions like alcohol, fast food and cigarettes which can obviously take their toll on your physical health too.
Mental Health
When you worry about money, you might find it difficult to concentrate and even lay awake at night thinking about it. Worrying about money can bring about feelings of anxiety, such as wondering how you are going to be able to keep up with mortgage payments or even depression when you feel stuck and unable to improve your financial situation. Many people also suffer from feelings of shame when it comes to money, particularly when they compare themselves to others (this is made much worse by social media too).
What Can You Do to Improve?
It is clear that financial stress can be very serious and impact both your physical and mental health (along with your life in general). It is not always easy and straightforward to improve your financial health, which is why the best thing to do is to speak with an experienced financial advisor. They will be able to offer expert advice based on your individual situation and goals and then find ways to improve your financial health, which in turn, should improve your physical and mental health and allow for a happier lifestyle.
Most people worry about money to some extent, but for many this stress is actually having a serious impact on their physical and mental health. In situations like this, it is important to take action so that you can improve your health and overall life situation.