Cost of living is no longer measured in dollars and cents. It is measured by sleepless nights, heightened anxiety, and increased emotional depletion.
According to a new national study conducted by affordablehousehub.orgfinancial instability has been a mental blow to millions of Americans, many have struggled to deal with it.
A survey of 1,000 adults in the US paints a subtle picture of living under certain financial stress. From rising housing costs to digital burnout and feelings of being “confined” in constant circumstances, Americans carry more than just a financial burden. They are also working on what researchers call “crisis fatigue.”
Country at the edge
Although inflation has cooled slightly, the prolonged impact of economic volatility has been heavily on households. According to the survey:
- One in three Americans report regularly experiencing significant financial stress.
- 55% of Gen Z and 57% of millennials say that financial stress caused them to experience anxiety or panic attacks.
- Renters are twice as many homeowners who report feeling angry, irritated or trapped by their current living situation.
- Over half (53%) of respondents reported losing sleep due to money.
- 43% will increase their anxiety, so they will actively avoid the news.
- 45% of tenants feel emotionally stuck due to the housing market situation.
- 12% of Americans say they can’t afford to prioritize mental health.
These numbers suggest that economic unrest is more than a budgeting challenge. It is a lasting emotional stressor with widespread results.
“We are seeing signs of emotional depletion nationwide,” a spokesman for AfforedableHousinghub.org said. “This isn’t just financial difficulties, it’s a way that these difficulties quietly penetrate everyday life, relationships and long-term happiness.”
The emotional sacrifice of financial pressure
For many Americans, especially the younger generation, financial stress is exacerbated by job market uncertainty, increased student loan debt, and increased costs of basic needs. Even people with stable employment and proper housing experience pressure.
Mental health experts warn that maintaining financial anxiety can lead to chronic stressful conditions, leading to burnout, disruption in sleep, tension in relationships and in some cases long-term health issues.
“Money stress not only affects your wallet, it also affects your focus, health, and your relationship,” said Steve Cummings, founder of the book. Budget makes centsa personal financial platform that helps individuals control their own money. “We talk about budgeting like a spreadsheet issue, but for most people it’s a matter of life. When someone says they’re stuck, it usually means that they don’t just need financial advice, they need progress. ”
Cummings adds that it is not uncommon for people to close or release when they feel economically overwhelmed. “People know they should have budgets, savings and plans for the future, but when they’re exhausted just trying to get through that day, those priorities slip away. And then they’re guilt and shame. It becomes a cycle.”
When mental health becomes luxurious
One of the most prominent findings in this study is that one in eight Americans cannot afford to concentrate on their mental health. For some, this means postponing therapy and wellness activities. For others, it means accepting chronic stress as a normal part of life.
This data has sparked concern among financial experts and mental health advocates. This means that mental health is being treated more and more as a privilege rather than as a basic need.
Breaking the cycle
Although the numbers are harsh, the study also highlights the importance of dealing with both financial literacy and emotional resilience simultaneously. Tools like emergency budget planning, community housing support, and accessible mental health care can play a key role in breaking the financial burnout cycle.
As Cummings points out, “The first step isn’t always cutting spending. Sometimes, acknowledge how heavy things feel and give them space to make one small improvement at a time.”
A complete study titled “Crisis Fatigue: Burnout Behind the Cost of Living in America” affordablehousehub.org.
