4 proven ways to cope with financial stress

With the cost of gas and groceries rising and worries over a recession, it’s no wonder financial stress is also on the increase. According to the annual Stress in America survey of more than 3,000 adults, conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), nearly 90% of respondents cited the increase in costs for everyday items as a significant source of stress.

Financial stress isn’t just an economic issue, it’s impacting people’s mental health as well, explains Dennis P. Stolle, JD, Ph.D., APA’s senior director of applied psychology. Constantly worrying about money could lead to loss of sleep, loss of appetite, and stomach pain—all symptoms commonly associated with general anxiety.

There are several ways to help lessen your anxiety. Here’s how:

1. Honor your emotions

Thema Bryant, Ph.D., president-elect of APA, encourages people to try emotion-focused coping, a type of stress management that focuses on regulating negative emotions, such as fear, stress, and anxiety. “It may include talking to non-shaming friends about your financial situation, going to therapy, meditation, exercise, gratitude journaling, and giving yourself permission to focus on things besides your finances,” she says.

2. Take action

After you’ve addressed your emotions, it’s time to take an honest look at your budget. Although you may be tempted to avoid coming to terms with your spending, that can actually cause more anxiety, experts say. “Knowing where you are financially is important to get a good picture of where you stand,” advises Dr. Devin Dunatov, medical director at Burning Tree, a treatment facility that specializes in mental health and addiction issues.

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3. Treat yourself

While it may seem counterintuitive to spend money to feel better, treating yourself to everyday luxuries, such as that latte from the coffee shop around the corner or your favorite yoga class, could help offset some of the stress you’re feeling.

4. Seek help

If you’ve tried other tactics and you’re still feeling anxious about your financial situation, it may be time to seek help from a medical professional. “You should never be embarrassed about asking for help because the sooner you do it, the better you will feel,” says Dunatov.?

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