Financial Stress
Stress over finding or keeping a job can lead to depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and compulsive behaviors such as overeating, gambling, and overspending, according to US Department of Health and Human Services, which also offers a checklist of financial stress warning signs:
- Persistent sadness/crying
- Excessive anxiety
- Lack of sleep/constant fatigue
- Excessive irritability/anger
- Increased drinking
- Illicit drug use and/or misuse of medications
- Concentration problems
- Apathy.
- If these symptoms persist, visit a mental health professional.
Coping techniques recommended by experts include:
- Consulting with a financial planner
- Maintaining a positive outlook
- Socializing and strengthening ties with friends and family
- Exercising and engaging in hobbies
- Developing new employment skills
- Talking with your spiritual leader
- Investigating financial hardship programs.
