Oftentimes, financial problems can lead to serious physical health troubles. But have you ever stopped to consider why this might be the case? Researchers have uncovered the fascinating truth behind this seemingly strange correlation between money and health. Surprisingly, it’s not because those who are cash-strapped are less likely to be able to afford doctor visits. Instead, the real health link to personal finance may surprise you.
When we feel like our finances, and by extension, our lives, are spiraling out of control, aches and pains increase throughout our bodies. Fascinatingly, the research has shown that it physically hurts to be economically insecure.
So, what could be the reason behind this bizarre link? Interestingly enough, it may all come down to anxiety and depression.
Money is a huge cause of anxiety
Studies have shown that money is a significant cause of anxiety, even for financially stable individuals. Lose your job or get hit with a large unexpected expense, and that anxiety can increase dramatically. Financial problems brought on by anxiety can also contribute to depression, which has a clear link with physical pain.
For instance, as noted in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, “Symptoms associated with depression include joint pain, limb pain, back pain, gastrointestinal problems, fatigue, psychomotor activity changes, and appetite changes. In the primary care setting, a high percentage of patients with depression present exclusively with physical symptoms.”
The Many Benefits of Reducing Stress
The good news for those feeling pain related to the stress of financial problems is that you can improve your situation and, best of all, it’s free.
You can do positive things, focus on what you’re grateful for in life, engage in activities you love, and share your positive experiences with others. By doing so, your stress levels will likely decrease, leading to an improvement in your overall emotional and physical health.
Exercising your way to better health
Exercising can help with reducing stress and depression, as it boosts the feel-good chemicals in the body and gets the blood moving to help the body feel better. Eating well nourishes the body and brain, complementing the positive impact of exercise. Additionally, meditating or engaging in yoga or tai chi can help reduce stress and relax both body and mind.
For more tips on relieving stress and beating depression and pain without expensive medical treatments, explore online resources focused on getting off painkillers for chronic pain management, pain relief with natural supplements, and natural ways to boost happiness. Look for articles on beating inflammation and erasing depression, strategies for cooling the heat that fires depression, and holistic treatment approaches for depression, anxiety, and the psychoses.
By educating yourself and taking positive steps to improve your well-being, you can potentially transform your mental and physical state. Who knows, you might even save some money on over-the-counter pain remedies, making the financial aspect of your life a little bit brighter.
