Financial woes can take its toll on more than your pocketbook. Concerns over joblessness, home foreclosures and other economic issues can cause both physical and psychological reactions, including anxiety. The Mayo Clinic says up to 80 percent of patients seeking medical care have conditions either caused by or aggravated by stress.
Effects
Money problems can rattle your sense of stability and place a dark cloud over your emotional and mental state. Some of the psychological symptoms associated with financial anxiety include extreme nervousness, irritability, fatigue, insomnia and depression.
Considerations
Concerns over dire finances can take its toll on your physical health. For example, financial anxiety and stress can lead to high blood pressure and headaches. The Mayo Clinic says chronic stress can lead to heart disease, digestive problems and obesity.
Warning Signs
Out-of-control feelings of anxiety may lead to an increase in drinking, illicit drug use and/or abuse of prescription medications. In some cases, persistent tension and stress may lead to compulsive behaviors, such as excessive gambling or overeating. These unhealthy solutions to your financial anxiety can make matters worse by impairing function at home, work or school.
Unhealthy Coping
Denial may seem like a quick way of managing stress during tough economic times. When you act as if nothing is wrong, the underlying pressure will continue to mount and ultimately lead to greater stress and anxiety as financial problems are left unattended.
Managing Anxiety
There are a variety of coping techniques and ways to get help, depending on your individual situation. Engaging in activities that can release stress, like exercise, hobbies or socializing with friends and family may help. Sharing your worries with people who are experiencing similar stress can also provide support and let you know you are not alone in your struggles.
Solutions
In cases of unemployment, acquiring new job skills can give you a sense of control over your financial situation and help to increase your job seeking opportunities. A financial crisis may need help for outside sources, such as therapist, school counselor, health care provider or perhaps a spiritual leader.
