Five life-changing ways to think about money (and boost your mental health)

Money anxiety. Could there be a more overwhelming and relatable topic? Here’s the thing, managing financial stress is about more than just numbers in a bank account. Taking small, intentional steps toward financial health can actually feel liberating and empowering. When you thrive, your family thrives and the contributions you are then able to make in your community helps make the world a better place.

Financial stress can affect mental health, but not in the way you might think

Did you know that financial stress isn’t just about how much money you make? New research suggests that it’s more about how we manage money versus how much money we make.

A 21-year study from the University of South Australia tracked thousands of people and found that those who put money into savings and paid off their credit cards on time were generally happier and less anxious than those who didn’t. In fact, these two habits were linked to significantly better mental wellbeing for people at all income levels and backgrounds.

On the other hand, just as our finances can impact our mental health, our mindset can also impact our financial wellbeing.

Emotional spending is a common way to cope with everyday pressures or negative feelings. We’ve all experienced the thrill of an impulsive purchase or the hope that the item or service we purchased will be “the thing” that helps make life more manageable. The downside is that once those feelings wear off, we might experience guilt or even shame over the impulsive purchase.

The truth is that money is closely linked to our sense of security and our sense of self. And our money habits can play a major role in the health of that relationship.

5 ways to think about money to reduce stress

The human brain craves certainty. When life throws us curveballs, whether it’s a job change, an unexpected expense, debt or a shift in income, stress kicks in.

This fight or flight response is useful for short periods. However, when it lasts too long, it can cloud our judgment or increase anxiety. This could potentially lead to poor decisions that do not help our long-term goals.

Some helpful things to remember when feeling stress related to money:

1. You’re more than your number.
   No matter what numbers are in your life: your credit score, student loans, mortgage, bank balance, etc.—it doesn’t say anything about your worth as a person. It can be so easy to believe your value relates to your numbers. But you are separate from your money and your financial situation can be flexible.
2. Comparison is the thief of joy.
   Scrolling through Instagram, it’s easy to see all the clothes, trips and accessories of your friends, family and strangers and then compare them to your own. Not to mention targeted ads designed to make you want more things. It’s well established that wealth, beyond having the basics in life, isn’t associated with being happier. Taking a break helps you clear your head and take stock of what you already have. You can also avoid comparison triggers by asking yourself, “does this activity or item add meaning or any real value to my life?”
3. What matters most?
   What areas of your finances cause the most stress? Is it debt? Monthly bills? Lack of savings? Break it down into manageable pieces and focus on your top three concerns. Credit Human’s free spending plan worksheet can help you organize your expenses. It can also help you make a plan that feels doable.
4. Take it one step at a time.
   Trying to do too much all at once can trigger a stress response. Instead, try to focus on one financial decision at a time. Celebrate small wins like making a credit card payment on time or sticking to a spending plan for a week. Be kind to yourself. Progress, not perfection, is the goal. And you may need to modify your plans as life happens.
5. Make a realistic plan.
   Set realistic goals and commit to them. For example, “Each month, I’ll set aside $50 for emergencies so I can feel more prepared for the unexpected.” Then, find ways to stay accountable. Share your goals with a trusted friend or family member . If talking with family or friends isn’t something you’re comfortable with yet, we have Financial Health Centers with people ready to help you reach your goals. You can also track your progress in a journal or app. Remind yourself why you’re doing this, whether it’s for peace of mind, a big savings goal or simply to sleep better at night.

Let’s Talk About Money

We talk about anything and everything, except our finances. Is this your experience too? Many of us feel a little awkward (unless we’re choosing an emoji on Venmo) or maybe even rude to bring up the subject of money with friends or family. But tackling the subject could be beneficial if it’s something you haven’t done before. And people tend to feel a huge sense of relief talking about their fears around money.

Brene Brown, the highly respected author, mental health researcher and professor at the University of Houston, notes that “shame thrives when we feel most alone… cut off, separate and different from those closest to us.” But when we practice empathy, which is the opposite of shame, we introduce courage, compassion and connection. Since money anxiety is often tied closely to feelings of shame, sharing your fears with others creates empathy and the ability to feel seen. Most importantly, it creates the understanding that what you are feeling is normal. I’ve felt the same way. It’s OK.

At Credit Human, we believe that financial health is the foundation for a better life. We have Financial Health Centers with people ready support you with tools and encouragement every step of the way. No jargon or sales pitches. Just sound guidance that helps you make informed decisions that are right for you.

Before you go: Learn more strategies for a healthier money mindset and check out some personal financial management tools in digital banking to help you reach your goals.