Coping with financial stress

Insomnia

Weight gain/ loss

Depression

Anxiety

Relationship difficulties

Social withdrawal

Physical ailments (e.g. headaches/ gastrointestinal problems etc.)

Unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g. alcohol/ drug abuse, overeating etc.)

Financial problems adversely impact your mental health

Poor mental health makes it difficult to manage money

These difficulties managing money lead to more financial problems and worsening of mental health problems

Talk to someone you trust

• Open up to your friends and family

• Let them express their concerns

• Make time for (inexpensive) fun

Get professional advice (e.g. organisations that offer free counselling on dealing with financial problems)

Take inventory of your finances

• Include every source of income

• Keep track of all your spending

• List your debts

• Identify spending patterns

• Look to make small changes

• Go easy on yourself

Make a plan and stick to it

• Identify your financial problem

• Devise a solution

• Put your plan into action

• Monitor your progress

• Don't get derailed by setbacks

Create a monthly budget

Manage your overall stress

• Get moving!

• Make time for relaxation

• Don't skimp on sleep

• Boost your self-esteem

• Eat healthy food

• Be grateful