Canadians are drowning in debt. In late 2018, Statistics Canada pointed out that the average Canadian household had $1.74 in credit market debt for every dollar brought in. In short, the average Canadian family has nearly twice the debt as what they earn annually. That’s a shocking statistic, but it clearly shows just how heavy our debt burdens have become. At 4 Pillars, we understand that not only does that cripple your financial capabilities, but it can lead to serious negative health effects, too.
How does something like debt affect an individual’s health? Actually, it is very simple. It all ties into stress and emotional burden. What the mind experiences eventually affects the body.
For instance, the immense stress load from carrying your debt actually raises your blood pressure. High blood pressure puts additional stress and strain on your circulatory system, making it more likely to experience everything from heart disease to a stroke. To control your high blood pressure, you’ll also need to take medication and make changes to your lifestyle, both of which could have been avoided simply by reducing your stress in the first place.
Interestingly, stress also leads to physical pain and discomfort. For instance, the higher your stress load, the more likely you are to suffer from headaches and even migraines, as well as back pain, neck pain, and stomach ulcers.
Stress can also make you more susceptible to getting sick. Studies have shown that chronic stress loads reduce the body’s immune system. Getting sick more frequently can lead to more missed days at work, increasing your difficulty in paying down your debt load.
Financial stress has also been linked to anxiety and depression. Those conditions not only reduce your quality of life, but they also affect those around you. Consider the fact that the vast majority of divorces are caused at least in part by financial stress. In fact, financial issues are the single most common cause of divorce in North America.
What can you do to turn the tide and find relief? The answer might be working with a debt consultant at 4 Pillars. Our consultants have the experience, expertise, knowledge, and compassion necessary to help you find the light at the end of the tunnel. Ready to change your life for the better? For more information, call 4 Pillars at 866-690-DEBT (3328).
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