Financial problems are becoming more common as our society navigates inflation, an overwhelming housing market, and continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. For those who had existing debt prior to the events of the last few years, this burden has only increased. Recently, those in mental health fields have recognized the effects this type of stress can have on a person’s well-being. The symptoms of financial depression appear similar to other depressive disorders, but the source is economic.
What is Financial Depression?
Depression that comes as a result of economic struggles is classified as financial depression. Any drastic changes in a person or family’s budget can increase stress and put a strain on their living situation. Often, it’s difficult to see a way out of this situation, resulting in symptoms of depression. Common signs of this disorder include:
- Increased, persistent hopelessness
- Feelings of guilt
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Those who are experiencing depressive symptoms related to finances often see their mood improve if those stressors change. However, there may be underlying mental health issues unrelated to life circumstances, so it’s important to discuss any concerns or changes you see with a medical or mental health provider.
Monetary Causes of Depressive Symptoms
As is the case with all mental illnesses, there are usually multiple factors that contribute to a diagnosis. While one of these may be the primary source of stress, it’s more common for financial depression to occur as a result of a combination of circumstances. Some of the most common sources of monetary stress include:
- Loss of income or housing
- Acquiring unexpected debt
- Medical expenses
- Home or auto repairs
- Legal issues
Each of these is an emotional challenge outside of the economic burden it causes. Unexpected life events can bring needed change, but it’s natural to have anxiety related to your situation.
Managing Stress and Recovery
Financial depression can dramatically affect those in recovery for a substance use disorder. The financial burden of frequent substance use often results in an increase in both anxiety and depression. Recovery becomes challenging when circumstances outside of your control affect your sobriety. Mental health issues, such as financial or other depressive disorders, often coexist with a substance use disorder. Co-occurring disorders make treatment more complex because both diagnoses have to be managed at the same time. Learning to cope with stress in a healthy way sets you up for long-term success in recovery.
Addiction Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders
Because of the challenges that come with treating a mental illness alongside an addiction, choosing the right rehab center is vital for your sobriety. At Hemet Valley Recovery Center, we provide comprehensive treatment to help you manage each aspect of your addiction. We offer multiple levels of care, so you have the support you need at all stages of recovery. With specialized programs for older adults and young adults, we offer age-specific care to best meet your needs. If you’re struggling with managing the stressors of life alongside an addiction, contact our team today to learn more about our treatment options.
References:
Berger, L.M., Collins, J. & Cuesta, L. Household Debt and Adult Depressive Symptoms in the United States. J Fam Econ Iss 37, 42–57 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10834-015-9443-6
Richardson T, Elliott P, Roberts R. The relationship between personal unsecured debt and mental and physical health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev. 2013 Dec;33(8):1148-62. doi: 10.1016/j.cpr.2013.08.009. Epub 2013 Sep 10. PMID: 24121465.
