Mental health and financial stress are deeply interconnected. Money problems can feel overwhelming, affecting your mood, relationships, and overall well-being. However, there are steps you can take to regain control over your finances and mental health. In honour of Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re sharing practical advice on how to build a supportive community, take action on your finances, and create a healthier relationship with money.
Whether you’re struggling with debt, feeling isolated, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, these 5 steps will help guide you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. And remember: you don’t have to go through this alone.
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Reach Out for Support: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
When you’re facing financial stress, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one struggling. But the reality is, many people go through similar challenges, and there are support systems available to help.
Start by talking to someone you trust, a friend, family member, or colleague. Having an open and honest conversation about money worries can alleviate some of the emotional burden. If you feel comfortable, you can also seek professional advice from a debt support service like Angel Advance to explore your options.
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Create a Budget and Financial Plan: Take Control of Your Money
Creating a budget may feel like a daunting task, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to take control of your finances. By tracking your income and expenses, you can better understand where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut back or save.
Start small. Focus on creating a simple budget that outlines your essential expenses, such as rent, bills, groceries, and transportation. Then, look at your discretionary spending, such as dining out or entertainment and decide where you can make adjustments. The goal is to have a plan that empowers you, not one that causes additional stress.
For a detailed guide on creating a budget, read our budgeting guide.
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Build a Community for Support: Surround Yourself with Positivity
Financial worries can be isolating, but it’s important to remember that community matters, especially when it comes to mental health. Reaching out to others who can offer support, whether through shared experiences or just a listening ear, is key to overcoming money-related stress.
Consider joining online forums or local support groups where you can connect with others who understand your challenges. Don’t underestimate the power of building relationships with people who can offer advice, encouragement, or simply a safe space to talk about your worries.
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Practice Self-Care and Stress-Reduction Techniques: Take Time for You
When you’re facing financial stress, it can be easy to neglect your own well-being. However, taking time to relax and recharge is crucial for both mental health and financial clarity. Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, exercise, or journaling can help you clear your mind and approach your financial situation with a fresh perspective.
Even small acts of self-care, like a walk in nature or a hot bath, can help restore your energy and reduce anxiety. The more you take care of your mental health, the better equipped you’ll be to tackle financial challenges.
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Seek Professional Advice or Counselling: Take the First Step Toward Financial Freedom
If you’re struggling to manage debt or make financial decisions, seeking professional advice can make all the difference. Services like Angel Advance provide free, confidential debt advice to help you understand your options and find a plan that works for you.
Working with professionals who specialise in financial issues can give you a sense of direction and support during tough times. Whether you need help negotiating with creditors, creating a payment plan, or finding ways to improve your credit score, taking that first step toward professional guidance can alleviate stress and bring a sense of hope for the future.
Dealing with financial stress can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your mental health. By reaching out for support, creating a financial plan, building a community, practising self-care, and seeking professional advice, you can take actionable steps toward improving both your financial situation and your overall well-being. If you’re struggling with debt, contact us to get free*, confidential debt advice. Find out the best way to tackle your debts, including: Debt Management Plans, Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVA), Debt Relief Orders (DRO) and more. Or, if you’d prefer to receive debt advice without a phone call, our free online tool is available to use 24 hours a day.
*Our advice is free, but if you sign up for a debt solution, a fee will apply for some solutions.
