Debt and chronic pain are two common problems that many Americans face. But did you know that they can also be connected? According to a recent study, having constant or increasing unsecured debt, such as credit card bills or medical expenses, can lead to worse physical health and more pain interference at midlife.
What is the connection between debt and chronic pain?
The study, published in the journal SSM – Population Health, analyzed data from nearly 8,000 “Baby Boomers” who were followed from age 28 to age 40, and then assessed for their physical health at age 50. The researchers found that those who had consistently high debt or whose debt grew over time were more likely to have poor physical health outcomes, such as lower self-rated health, more functional limitations, and more pain that interfered with their daily activities.
The researchers suggested that the stress of carrying unsecured debt could trigger physiological responses that affect the immune system, inflammation, and pain perception. Additionally, debt stress could also lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, or skipping medical care, that could worsen physical health and pain.
How can debt and chronic pain impact your life?
Debt and chronic pain can have negative consequences for your well-being, both individually and together. For example, debt can cause emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and lower life satisfaction. Chronic pain can also affect your mental health, mood, sleep, and quality of life. Moreover, debt and chronic pain can create a vicious cycle, where pain limits your ability to work and earn income, which increases your debt, which in turn causes more stress and pain.
Debt and chronic pain can also affect your relationships, social support, and self-esteem. For instance, debt can strain your marriage, family, and friendships, as well as isolate you from social networks that could provide emotional and financial assistance. Chronic pain can also make you feel lonely, misunderstood, and stigmatized, as well as reduce your participation in social and recreational activities.
How can you cope with debt and chronic pain?
If you are struggling with debt and chronic pain, you are not alone. There are some steps you can take to manage your situation and improve your well-being. Here are some tips:
- Seek professional help. If you have severe or persistent pain, consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment options. If you have overwhelming or unmanageable debt, contact a reputable credit counselor or financial planner for advice and assistance. You may also benefit from seeking mental health counseling or therapy if you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or other emotional issues related to your debt or pain.
- Make a budget and a plan. One of the best ways to reduce your debt stress is to have a clear picture of your income and expenses, and a realistic plan to pay off your debt. You can use online tools, apps, or worksheets to help you create a budget and track your spending. You can also explore various debt repayment strategies, such as the debt snowball or debt avalanche methods, to find the one that suits your needs and goals. Additionally, you can look for ways to increase your income, such as taking on a side hustle, selling unwanted items, or asking for a raise, and to reduce your expenses, such as cutting unnecessary subscriptions, switching to cheaper providers, or negotiating lower interest rates.
- Practice self-care and healthy habits. Taking care of your physical and mental health can help you cope with your pain and improve your mood. Some of the things you can do include eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, meditating, doing yoga, stretching, breathing deeply, listening to music, reading, writing, or engaging in other hobbies that you enjoy. You can also use over-the-counter or prescription medications, supplements, or alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care, to relieve your pain, as long as you consult your doctor before trying anything new.
- Seek support and community. You don’t have to deal with your debt and pain alone. You can reach out to your family, friends, or other trusted people for emotional, practical, or financial support. You can also join online or offline support groups, forums, or communities where you can share your experiences, challenges, and successes with others who understand what you are going through. You can also find inspiration, motivation, and advice from experts, influencers, or role models who have overcome similar situations or achieved similar goals.
- Celebrate your progress and achievements. No matter how small or big, every step you take toward reducing your debt and managing your pain is worth celebrating. You can reward yourself with something that makes you happy, such as a treat, a gift, a compliment, or a gratitude note. You can also track your progress and achievements using charts, graphs, apps, or journals. This can help you stay focused, motivated, and positive, as well as remind you of how far you have come and how much you have accomplished.
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