Debt may seem to be a regular part of contemporary life for most people, but for some it carries with it many negative effects. Since each different person has his or her own unique personality and way of dealing with things, not everyone is affected by money problems the same way. Some people will just shrug them off and continue to create more, while others may end up sick or using alcohol and drugs to hide from reality. Obviously, there is a grey area between the two extremes, but for most, carrying a heavy debt load creates some specific psychological effects. The intensity and severity of these effects may differ from person to person, but most will notice some issues along the way.

Fear is perhaps the primary psychological effect of severe money problems. People in heavy debt sometimes begin to fear what the future may hold, and whether the debts will ever be paid off. The fear can quickly turn to paranoia, and it isn’t too uncommon for people to fear losing their jobs, relationships, social status, or to end up in permanent poverty. Fears of bankruptcy and creditors, maybe even imprisonment might dance through someone’s mind that is saddled with a lot of debt. When someone is living in continual fear, performance at work or school are usually affected and the possibility of job loss or poor grades may become real.

Once money problems induce a state of fear, a snowball effect may be created that creates more problems. Fear leads to stress, and stress can lead to weight gain or weight loss, difficulty sleeping, high blood pressure or a weakened immune system. All of these symptoms will naturally lead to greater health problems if they are not addressed and the cause of the stress isn’t removed.

For money problems, sometimes bankruptcy ends up being the only possible solution. The stresses of debt and money problems also lead to a loss of focus. Poor concentration because of no sleep or health problems is another way job performance may suffer, but it can also affect other areas. Relationships within the family can deteriorate and your physical health may be in jeopardy if you’re out and about driving and not paying attention to the road and other drivers.

The end result for many people who have heavy debt is depression. The fear, stress and poor focus all band together to cause depression, which can really be a dangerous situation. Sometimes, when depression sets in due to money problems, you won’t feel like doing anything at all, feeling like the whole situation is hopeless. In extreme cases, thoughts of suicide may even enter the picture. If you have money problems and start to feel any psychological effects, it’s wise to visit a debt solution company to find some options. You can often find debt settlement agreements that make payments manageable and help you get back on your feet. Money problems are never fun, but there is usually a way out if you go speak to a professional.

Offering a FREE no-obligation consultation, money problems experts have been helping Canadians for over 30 years.