Whether we like it or not, money plays an important part in our lives. Being in debt and not having enough money to make it through the month brings constant stress – not to mention the frustration of not being able to have the finer things you want. You know that your financial health affects how you live your life, but does it affect your overall health as well?

Your Bank Account and Your Health

Of course your finances affect your health, because having finances that are in disarray can be stressful, and stress can lead to a variety of health issues. It isn’t just worrying about massive debt that can cause these problems, though – even steps to help you find relief, such as refinancing your debt, or a happy event like buying your first new house can end up being very stressful.

Money problems can make you lose sleep, increase your blood pressure, give you headaches, and cause you to have muscles that are constantly tensed up. Over time you may develop digestive issues and even heart problems.

Finding a solution for your money problems may not be quick or easy, but you can make sure to take care of your overall health while you look for answers. Find healthy ways to deal with the stress. Many people may fall into bad habits, such as eating too much, smoking, or drinking too much. These habits only make things worse and can make it more difficult to achieve your financial goals.

How To Improve Your Financial Health

The good news is that, unlike a genetic condition that affects your health, you can do something about your financial health. 

• Start keeping track of where your money goes every month. It isn’t enough just to briefly look at your credit card or bank statement when it comes in once a month. Make a point to add up charges as they go onto your card or as money comes out of your bank account – it can really make a difference when you write it out and realize that your $5 a day coffee shop habit is really adding up.
• Keep track of your debt, too. Do you really know how much debt you have? You may have an idea, but you should know, down to the penny, how much you owe. It is the first step to developing a plan to deal with it.
• Do your research. There are many different techniques out there that have helped people to get out of debt and learn to manage their money better. For instance, some people swear by the “snowball” method, in which you pay off your lowest debt while paying the minimum on your other debts. Then, once your lowest debt is paid off you move on to the next debt, and so on. Find a technique that works for you.
• Celebrate your accomplishments. If you’ve reached a goal – say, paying off the car or avoiding using a credit card for a whole month – don’t forget to celebrate. For one thing, you deserve it, and for another thing, you want to encourage yourself to keep going!
• Make a budget and stick to it. Make sure your budget is realistic, and make sure that part of your budget includes putting money away into savings.
• Ask for help if you need it. Ask a friend who has always been good with their money for help, or consider finding a credit counselor (there are organizations who do this for free).

Dealing with a financial mess can be very stressful – but figuring a way out of it can be an empowering learning experience. Take charge of your finances and your health!

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