The links between finances and mental health is clear and ever revolving. Couple this with the current global pandemic, and these relationships are much clearer.
This impact is even more clear when reviewing current statistics. In a recent survey, 86% of surveyors reported having mental illness and said their financial situation had made the issue worse. The same survey reported that more than half of US citizens have debt that’s causing them a problem and 72% of these same responders shared that their mental health made their finances worse.
We know that debt is a huge burden and leads to general anxiety when needing to pay bills and avoid those wonderful debt collectors.
The Global Pandemic Amplifies Concern
The current COVID pandemic already has potential to produce challenges. However, when compounded with poor financial health, poor mental health is more likely to occur.
Remember that survey? Over half of the population believe COVID has led to an alteration in their mental health. Many are reporting feeling routine anxiety. The Mayo Clinic reports mental health referrals have doubled since this same time last year.
What about job losses? Or maybe working from home? How about sickness in the home? These have become a reality for many people.
The Citizens Advice Bureau found that six million adults fell behind on at least one household bill by last fall. We haven’t see the full effects of this pandemic yet.
Where to get help
Although improving financial health will never eliminate mental health concerns (it is important to seek appropriate professional help), it can help alleviate one common cause of worry. Here are some options if you are seeking financial or other service related support:
- You can call 2-1-1 in most U.S. states to learn about immediate financial help options available to you.
- Local branches of the RedCross (with emergencies) Salvation Army, Goodwill, and other national charity organizations to get immediate financial help to pay rent or mortgage, keep the lights on or buy food.
- Inquire at local charities for immediate financial help. Civic organizations in your community often have funds to help those in need.
- Turn to churches and religious communities for immediate financial help.
Are you in need of mental health support? Here are some useful contacts:
- 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK) – National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- New Life Clinics 1-800-NEW-LIFE (Christian crisis support)
- National Prayer Line 1-800-4-PRAYER (Christian crisis support)
- Association of Certified Biblical Counselors
- Child Abuse Hotline — 800-4-A-CHILD (800 422 4453)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline — 800-799-7233
- Crisis Text Line — Text HOME to 741741
Final Thoughts…
We want you to know that you are important and your life matters. If you are struggling with mental health concerns, know that you are not alone and there are individuals who want to help. Many of us have experienced unique situations during this pandemic, are praying that this is over soon, and seeking God’s face for how to respond during these challenging times.
Sometimes it may feel far away. Please know that support is one phone call or text away.