Bala Kumar
We often hear the saying, “Money can’t buy you happiness,” and there’s truth to it.
Financial stress plays a significant role in how we feel emotionally and mentally. The recently published GOQii India Fit Report 2022-2023 highlights that workplace pressures and financial stress are the two major causes of high levels of stress experienced by Indians.
It’s not surprising—think about the times when you’ve been stressed about money, whether it was a lost wallet, late bill payments, or overwhelming debt.
Such financial stress can take a toll on our minds and bodies.
In this health and wellness blog from Fine Fettle, we explore some of the consequences that poor financial health can have on our mental and physical well-being.
1. Unwanted Arguments
Arguments and disagreements can result from financial stress, which can have a serious negative influence on our mental and physical health.
When we face financial difficulties, it can create tension and strain in our relationships, causing disagreements and heated discussions. These disagreements might have a negative impact on our physical health in addition to our emotional state.
The stress and anxiety from financial struggles can manifest as headaches, fatigue, and even more serious health issues. It is crucial to understand the link between financial stress and its consequences on our mental and physical health, as well as to seek support and implement stress management and coping mechanisms to lessen this load.
2. Sleepless Nights
Our mental and physical health can suffer as a result of financial stress, which can cause us to have restless nights.
The burden of financial worries can cause anxiety and make it difficult to relax and fall asleep.
This lack of good rest can further worsen our mental health, affecting our ability to concentrate, make decisions, and cope with daily challenges.
3. Mood Swings
People may experience abrupt and strong shifts in their emotions when they are having financial troubles, ranging from feelings of anxiety and irritation to times of grief or irritability. These mood swings can have a severe effect on mental health, raising stress levels and the danger of developing anxiety and depressive disorders.
Furthermore, because it can manifest in many ways, such as trouble falling asleep, changes in appetite, and general exhaustion, the harm to physical health cannot be ignored. So it follows that maintaining a steady and healthy mental and physical state depends on managing financial stress.
4. Isolating Ourselves From People
One way financial stress impacts us is by causing us to avoid social interactions.
When we are under financial strain, we may feel embarrassed or ashamed about our situation, leading us to withdraw from others. This isolation can further exacerbate our stress levels and contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression. Additionally, physical symptoms like headaches, exhaustion, and an increased risk of sickness might be a result of the stress itself.
Thus, it is important to address financial stress and seek support to prevent its detrimental impact on our overall health.
5. Feeling Guilty Whenever We Purchase Something
Financial stress can make us feel guilty when we buy something, which is harmful to our physical and mental health.
The pressure of financial difficulties can weigh heavily on us, leading to anxiety and emotional strain. This burden can seep into our thoughts and actions, causing us to feel guilty when we make even necessary purchases. Such guilt can further deteriorate our mental health and even manifest in physical symptoms.
6. Delaying Medical Care
Experiencing financial stress can lead to a significant consequence: delaying necessary health care. This delay can affect both our mental and physical health. When faced with financial burdens, individuals may feel compelled to prioritize their immediate financial needs over seeking medical attention.
Unfortunately, this postponement can have detrimental effects on their overall health. It is crucial to comprehend how financial stress may hinder our ability to get timely and essential healthcare because it directly impacts our physical and emotional well-being.
7. Intoxication
Intoxication, or the state of being under the influence of substances like alcohol or addictive drugs, is yet another impact of financial stress. When people experience financial stress, they may turn to these substances as a way to cope with their emotions and escape from their problems. This can lead to a cycle of destructive behaviors and further deterioration of their mental and physical health.
8. Self Harm
Our emotional and physical health can be significantly impacted by financial stress, which can lead to self-harm as a coping mechanism. Financial stress can negatively impact our mental health, leading to emotions of helplessness, worry, and sadness. The overwhelming burden of financial stress can also manifest in physical symptoms, exacerbating the distress.
Tragically, some people choose to self-harm as an unhelpful coping technique to momentarily ease their emotional suffering. It is essential to address the root causes of financial stress and offer support networks in order to make sure that people receive the assistance they need for their mental and physical well-being.
Conclusion
As highlighted in this wellness blog, the consequences of poor financial health can take a toll on our overall state of being. By recognizing and addressing financial stress, we can strive to achieve a state of “Fine Fettle” not only in our finances but also in our mental and physical well-being. Let this blog serve as a reminder to prioritize financial wellness as an essential component of our holistic health journey.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
