You probably already know that your financial difficulties are making you stressed, but have you really stopped to consider what that means for your health?
When something affects our health in a tangible way we are usually proactive about fixing it—when we have a cold we take vitamins and go to bed. When we start putting on a little weight we cut back on the chocolate and start exercising (hopefully you do).
However, when you are struggling with financial difficulties it you try to hide it and to ignore the consequences and the affect it’s having on your health because we think there is nothing that can be done, it’s just a part of life.
Financial Stress
We have all dealt with stress before, but when you are having financial difficulties stress can become a constant visitor and, eventually, a way of life. Chronic stress can lead to cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Stress increases your heart rate and your blood pressure putting more stress on your heart.
High levels of stress can also alter the hormone levels in your body which can lead to adrenal fatigue, weight gain, and can cause joint pain.
If you are having financial difficulties you have probably found yourself anxiously tossing and turning at night and this sleep deprivation can also lead to weight gain, trouble concentrating and can impede everyday tasks such as driving or working. Not getting enough sleep can also impair your immune system and cause moodiness.
You may also suffer other personality changes such as anxiety and depression, which can in turn make the stress of your financial situation even harder to deal with.
Looking after yourself
When you are having financial difficulties it is harder to care for yourself because you may develop unhealthy ways to cope with the pressure. These coping mechanisms could be smoking, drinking and frequently over eating.
In addition the physical damage caused by financial stress, when you are having financial problems you tend to cut spending on caring for yourself. Whether you let your health insurance lapse or ignore health issues in the face of expensive doctor’s bills, not caring for yourself because of your financial situation can lead to life altering illnesses and even death.
Aging
High stress levels and unhealthy lifestyle habits can lead to looking and feeling older than you really are. Stress and worry cause those worry lines in your face to deepen. Stress can also affect your skin, your teeth, and your internal organs which, when combined, make you look and feel old.
Plus, because you are worried about your finances you neglect to spend the money on supplements, and preventative care which can help your internal health, your skin, and your joints.
Relationships
Your relationships with your partner, your family, and your friends are the most important things to your wellbeing. And when you are too consumed by your financial difficulties to afford these relationships the time and effort they deserve, they will suffer.
Your hopelessness and frustration with your financial situation can lead to irritability. So even when you do make time for your relationships, your attitude can damage those relationships and it can often seem easier to withdraw from your social circle. Unfortunately this isolation can then compound feelings of anxiety and depression.
How to Build Healthy Financial Habits
If you are suffering from one or all of these symptoms of financial strain then you probably don’t see how a few simple steps can put you on the road to better emotional and financial health.
However, it’s taking those first few steps and making a start on changes in your life that can bring hope to the situation. If you continue taking small steps towards healthier financial goals, you’ll find yourself making major progress in no time.
Stop letting your finances physically harm you. Vertical Vision will help you get on track and take control of your money. We will help you reduce the stress and anxiety caused by your money problems. Don’t wait any longer, call us today at: (973) 440-8095
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