Millions of people are reeling in financial strain and insecurity on the heels of the pandemic and the economic downturn that followed. Here’s how to cope.
Have you experienced financial uncertainty or instability during or on the heels of COVID? Are the post-pandemic economic downtown, stock market volatility, and unprecedented inflation stressing you out, or worse, affecting your ability to provide for yourself and your family?
If you answered yes, you’re not alone. In fact, 9 in 10 Americans are concerned about the 40-year-high inflation, and mass layoffs have affected thousands who—along with everything else that has occurred over the past couple of years—didn’t see it coming.
By this point, we are all pretty accustomed to living through the unprecedented and unpredictable. But what many don’t realize is financial issues are actually one of the most common events that can cause grief.
So, if you’re one of the many losing sleep at night over the shaky economy and the ominous uncertainty about the future, here are some things to consider and some tips to work through the grief that follows financial insecurity, so you can power through and come out of this seemingly impossible burden stronger on the other side.
5 Things You May Not Know About Financial Strain
- Financial strain causes panic and stress in households all over the world, and countless people are still reeling from the effects of the pandemic and the downturn that followed. If this is you, remember: you’re not alone.
- Even though people from all walks of life can experience financial issues, studies show Black and Hispanic people have it the worst.
- Financial grief can affect every aspect of your life, causing you to cope in unhealthy ways (such as with alcohol and substance abuse) and take your stress out on the people you love the most. Seeking support by a trusted friend or professional can help you overcome the grief and establish a hopeful path forward.
- Men especially, whose egos are tied (in a positive way) to providing for their families, can be disproportionately affected by financial grief, making the need to seek support that much more important.
- Even a perceived “positive” financial change—like winning the lottery or receiving a hefty inheritance—can cause financial grief.
How to Cope with Financial Grief
Grief causes your brain and heart to fall out of alignment with one another. By getting the support you need and processing the powerful emotions grief brings, you clear your heart and give yourself the opportunity to think clearly and rationally.
If you are worried sick about how you will afford your next grocery bill or mortgage payment, you are not alone. We see you, we know you’re hurting, and want to offer you a safe place to share your situation and feel supported. Contact us today to set up a free discovery call and spend some time with us – we’re here for you.
Sharon Brubaker is a certified Life Coach and credentialed Grief Specialist who, along with her team, teaches women who are grieving how to process their thoughts and emotions. To learn more about navigating grief within the family, listen to the full podcast episode here or download my free e-Book, The Griever’s Guide, which equips you with the tools to live life after grief; because no griever should have to navigate a broken heart on their own.
