The Weight of Financial Stress: When Money Feels Like a Constant Worry

Open Fields Mental Health | Cultivating Peace of Mind

Money touches almost every part of our lives; our home, our health, our future. So when finances feel uncertain, tight, or overwhelming, it’s no surprise that it takes a major toll on our mental health. Financial stress isn’t just about numbers; it’s about fear, shame, pressure, and exhaustion.

At Open Fields Mental Health, we support individuals and families navigating the emotional impact of money-related stress with empathy and care.

What Financial Stress Feels Like

It can show up in subtle, and not-so-subtle, ways:

• Constant worry or racing thoughts about bills and expenses

• Avoiding bank accounts, mail, or conversations about money

• Trouble sleeping or concentrating

• Increased conflict in relationships

• Feelings of shame, guilt, or failure

• Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach problems, or panic attacks

Whether you’re underemployed, facing debt, caring for a family, or just trying to keep up with everyday costs, you’re not alone.

The Mental Load of Money

Financial stress often brings more than just logistical challenges, it can deeply affect self-esteem and overall well-being. You may start to question your worth or feel stuck in survival mode. It can even lead to depression, anxiety, or chronic burnout.

We’re often told we should “just budget better” or “work harder,” but that ignores the emotional toll and systemic challenges people face every day.

How Therapy Can Help

Talking about money in therapy may feel uncomfortable at first, but it can be a powerful step toward healing. At Open Fields, we help people:

• Understand the emotional and relational patterns tied to money

• Reduce shame and self-blame related to financial hardship

• Learn realistic tools to manage stress and build coping skills

• Identify values and goals beyond the paycheck

• Create space to grieve, regroup, and grow

We don’t fix your budget, we help you carry the emotional weight that comes with it.

You don’t have to face financial pressure silently. Therapy can give you the space to breathe, regroup, and face your situation with more support and less shame.

Amanda Dufty LCSW offers sliding scale private pay for those who do not carry insurance because she recognizes that mental health should not cause finicial stress.

📍 Based in Adrian, MI |

💻 Offering Telehealth across all of Michigan

At Open Fields Mental Health, your well-being matters, no matter your financial situation.

openfieldsmentalhealth.com