If you are struggling with debt, it’s perfectly normal to feel anxious, stressed or down. Recent studies suggest that between 50 and 90% of people with problem debts experience some level of emotional distress as a result of their financial situation.
Danger signs include changes in behaviour, such as becoming withdrawn or not wanting to see friends. They also include negative thoughts, and physical changes such as loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and trouble concentrating.
The good news is that there are many simple, inexpensive steps that anyone can take to ease this strain. For starters, becoming more organised and active in the management of your debts can bring a greater sense of control, which in turn reduces negative thoughts and feelings. If you write out a debt management plan, you can go back and look at it when negativity starts to creep in – it’s an effective reminder that you’re facing your fears and making progress.
Other ways to reduce stress
Keep active: exercise is a fantastic mood booster. You don’t need to join a fancy gym though, even a 20-minute walk each day can help. You may also have unused fitness equipment and DVDs lying around your home that can be put to good use.
Stay sociable: keep in touch with your friends and have a laugh and a chat. Talking about the situation with someone you trust can really help too, so don’t bottle things up. Good friends will be supportive, and help you keep problems in perspective.
Eat well: avoid having too much processed, fatty, sugary food and go for a balanced diet to keep your mind and body happy. Find cheap fruit and vegetables in budget supermarkets and street markets.
Sleep better: improving exercise and diet will help you to sleep more soundly. Having a regular bedtime also helps, and so does avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening. The world looks like a different place after a good night’s sleep.
Reduce alcohol: many people drink too much when they feel stressed, but it’s only a temporary escape and it can deepen feelings of depression and panic. Alcohol can also disrupt sleep patterns, making early morning waking more likely.
NHS Choices also has some excellent information about financial stress, and how to cope with it.
Where to get more help
If you still feel very stressed or low after trying these changes for a couple of weeks, it’s a good idea to contact your GP. Anyone who feels desperate or unable to cope can also phone the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 for confidential help and support.
Have you suffered from debt-related stress yourself? Please pass on your own tips or advice that might help others going through the same situation.
{Image: Naama Ym}
Really very nice article. If one want to live healthy and fit life then he/she should avoid the bad habits in the everyday life. Like they should avoid alcohol, smoking, tobacco chewing etc. For living healthy they one should take the good diet food which are best for their health and have the regular exercise everyday.
Debt can make a person feel bad and frustrated. We may all feel really bothered that we owe this or that to one person and it can take a toll on our health. It is best to pay our debts before things go out of hand and steer clear of the negative effects it has on our health.