The Funny Relationship Between Money and Sanity

There’s a curious relationship between money and mental health that’s hard to ignore. Despite advice to separate the two, it’s nearly impossible. I remember how, as a younger person, just the thought of financial stress or going broke would send my anxiety levels through the roof. Now, as I get older, juggling more responsibilities and watching the economy grow tougher, that anxiety feels even more intense. But why has money anxiety become such a dominant force in our lives? Why does financial insecurity have such a profound impact on our emotional well-being?

Come to think of it, in today’s world, it’s almost impossible to exist without money. When you compare it to the past, you only needed a little to maintain a comfortable life. But now? Oof. It’s a harsh reality. Forget about the idea of becoming an important person in society by accumulating wealth. Now, it’s all about survival. The struggle to make ends meet has overshadowed any thoughts of status or position. That can come later—if there’s anything left to save after the daily grind.

Can we ever truly move past this problem? Honestly, it feels like we never will. As time goes by, reality hits harder, and one truth remains: money is the master. Whether we like it or not, financial stability has become the ultimate goal. Most conversations today revolve around money issues, with the common mantra being, "Poverty is the enemy." The idea is simple: no matter what it takes, the goal is to beat poverty, even if it means doing whatever it takes to get the money. The focus isn’t always on the means; it’s all about escaping the grip of financial hardship.

As the saying goes, "If the mountain won't come to Mohammed, then Mohammed must go to the mountain." In today’s world, with financial stress looming large, we have to find ways to stay mentally healthy and remain sane in this constant money struggle. It's not enough to simply survive; we must find methods to thrive, even while facing the overwhelming pressure of the financial mountain.

So, how do we thrive in the midst of this financial mountain? While it may seem impossible at times, it’s about shifting our mindset and taking control of what we can. Here are a few ways to help you stay grounded and mentally healthy, even when money feels like the master:

1. Create a Budget and Stick to It

A budget isn’t just a list of numbers; it’s your roadmap to financial control. Knowing where your money goes each month can relieve a lot of anxiety. A budget helps prioritize spending, giving you the confidence to face financial challenges head-on.

2. Build an Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable, and having a safety net can provide a sense of security. Start small, but aim to save a portion of your income for unexpected expenses. With an emergency fund in place, you’ll feel more at ease, knowing you're prepared for the unexpected.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Financial stress can take a toll on your mental health, so finding ways to decompress is crucial. Meditation, yoga, or even journaling can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. When you take care of your mental health, you can better handle the challenges that come with managing your finances.

4. Invest in Financial Education

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to money. The more you understand about budgeting, investing, and debt management, the more equipped you are to make informed decisions. Educating yourself is a long-term investment that pays off in more ways than one.

5. Set Realistic Goals

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when looking at large financial goals. Instead of focusing solely on the big picture, break your goals down into smaller, manageable steps. Achieving these milestones can keep you motivated and reduce feelings of defeat.

6. Seek Support

You don’t have to go through financial struggles alone. Talk to someone you trust, whether it’s a partner, friend, or financial advisor. Sometimes just having a conversation can make a huge difference in easing the pressure and providing clarity.

7. Focus on What You Can Control

While you can’t control the economy or outside circumstances, you can control your actions. Focus on small steps that move you toward financial security, like paying down debt or saving a little extra each month. Every small effort counts.

8. Practice Gratitude

In the face of financial stress, it’s easy to get caught up in what you don’t have. But practicing gratitude for what you do have can shift your perspective. Whether it’s your health, relationships, or small wins along the way, gratitude can help you maintain a positive outlook, even during tough times.

But what if you're living foot to mouth? What if there's nothing to plan a budget for because there’s barely enough to eat and survive? No emergency fund, no savings, just enough to get by each day? In that case, it might feel like thriving is out of reach.

However, even in these circumstances, there are still ways to reclaim some control over your situation. It’s about focusing on small, immediate steps that can make a difference. For example, consider:

Small daily wins: While you may not have much to save, recognizing small wins—like managing to feed yourself or having a roof over your head—can help shift your mindset. Gratitude for what you have, no matter how small, can help ease the mental burden.

Seeking resources: In times of financial hardship, community resources—like food banks, shelters, or government aid programs—can be invaluable. These resources can offer support while you work on finding ways to improve your situation.

Finding emotional support: If you’re struggling financially, emotional support can be just as important as financial help. Surround yourself with people who understand and offer encouragement, even if it’s just a conversation about your day.

Self-care in the simplest form: You don’t have to have money to care for your mental well-being. Take moments to breathe, reflect, and rest. Sometimes the best way to deal with overwhelming financial stress is to take care of yourself mentally and emotionally.

While financial freedom may seem far off, taking these small steps can help you survive, and eventually, thrive. The road may be long, but even in the toughest times, you can find ways to hold onto your sanity and dignity.