Almost everyone is affected by debt at some point in their lives. It can happen very quickly and without you even noticing. When you’re in debt, it can feel like you will never be able to get out and move on with your life. This has a huge impact on your physiological health and mental health. In this article, we take a look at three ways debt can impact health to show you the importance of seeking help and finding a way out of debt.
Blood pressure
Blood pressure is an important measure of health. High blood pressure can be very dangerous and lead to issues throughout the body. Studies have shown that people living with debt are more likely to have high blood pressure. This could be because when you’re in debt, you might lean on substances such as alcohol and tobacco for relief. Often the lifestyle of those in debt forces them to rely on unhealthy convenience food, which can lead to being overweight and having high blood pressure. High levels of stress and poor sleep also contribute to high blood pressure. People in debt often struggle to get quality sleep and constantly feel stressed out. When your blood pressure is high for prolonged periods, it can put you at risk of a stroke or heart attack, which could end your life. It can also impact your brain, kidneys, eyes, arteries and heart in numerous other ways. Taking control of your debt by finding an appropriate debt solution and other lifestyle changes can help to return your blood pressure to a normal level.
Anxiety
Debt issues can cause anxiety in many people. Anxiety has various symptoms, including nervousness or restlessness, sweating, trembling, trouble sleeping and uncontrolled worry. Anxiety can be debilitating and prevent you from leaving your house or getting a job. If you develop anxiety whilst you’re working, it can interfere with your ability to do your job properly, leading to job loss. On top of this, anxiety may result in a breakdown of your relationships with partners, friends or family members. If anxiety is caused by uncontrolled debt, you can help to reduce your anxiety by getting on top of your debt through a debt solution. An IVA is one example of a debt solution that may help; through an IVA, you can write off some of your debts, freeze interest payments and put a plan in place to pay back an affordable amount each month. IVA specialists can advise on how to apply for an IVA if this solution suits your needs. You should also explore other debt solutions before deciding which meets your needs; a debt advisor can help you if you’re unsure where to start.
Immune system
When you’re stressed, you create a hormone called cortisol; this hormone gets you ready to take action or get out of the situation, also known as the fight or flight response. However, this isn’t always possible in modern-day life, and stress can become a regular part of everyday life, especially when you have uncontrolled debt. This can lead to a weakened immune system; cortisol can suppress your immune system, leaving you vulnerable to picking up common colds and other infections. Many people find themselves in a position where they’re trying to work long hours to pay off debt and are chronically stressed about their situation. This can leave them vulnerable to picking up illnesses that might force them to take time off work. If their employer doesn’t pay for sickness leave, it can be a cycle which leads to more debt and increased stress.
Debt and the stress that comes with it can be very damaging to your body and your mind. If you’re worried about any of these health conditions, you should make an appointment with your doctor. In an emergency situation always call the emergency department for immediate help. If you’re in a position where you’re struggling with debt, speak to someone for advice. Many charitable organisations can offer free debt help and provide you with the information and solutions you need to get debt free. Getting advice about your financial situation is the first step to getting debt free and healthy.
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