What Is Financial Stress, Really?
Financial stress refers to anxiety, worry, or unease that stems from money problems, whether it’s falling behind on bills, facing debt, or not feeling confident about your financial future.
Even if you’re earning a steady income, stress can still sneak in if you’re:
- Struggling with unexpected costs
- Living paycheck to paycheck
- Unsure about your retirement savings
- Supporting a family on a tight budget
And while it may seem like “just stress,” the effects go much deeper.
How Financial Stress Affects Your Health
It’s not just in your head. When money is always on your mind, your body feels it too.
Money continues to be one of the leading causes of stress for Americans. According to a recent survey cited by the ABA Banking Journal, 88% of Americans reported experiencing some form of financial stress at the start of the year. Additionally, a 2025 Bankrate survey found that 43% of U.S. adults say money negatively affects their mental health at least some of the time.
And that stress shows up in more ways than one.
Here’s how financial stress can impact your health:
- Sleep problems: Worrying about bills can lead to insomnia or restless sleep.
- Heart health: Chronic stress raises blood pressure and can increase risk for heart disease, especially concerning during Heart Health Month.
- Unhealthy habits: Many people cope by overeating, smoking, or skipping exercise.
- Mental health: Money problems are strongly linked to anxiety and depression.
- Relationship tension: Financial stress is one of the most common causes of conflict in marriages and partnerships.
February is National Heart Health Month, making it an ideal time to raise awareness about the health effects of stress, and what you can do to take control.
Related: Why You Can’t Resist Sales (and How to Stop Impulse Spending)
Common Money Stress Triggers
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not the only one. There are often a few familiar culprits behind financial stress.
- Unexpected medical bills
- Higher heating costs during winter months
- Rising cost of groceries and gas
- Paying off credit card or student loan debt
- Holiday spending lingering into the new year
- Job instability or variable income
- Caring for family members (children or aging parents)
- Trying to save for college or retirement
- Feeling unprepared for tax season
- Not having a safety net or emergency fund for things like car repairs
Even if you’re not facing a crisis, not having a plan in place can create background stress that builds over time. A financial check-in can help give you clarity and confidence.
Read More: How to Consolidate Your Debt: Pros and Cons
Self-Check: Are You Feeling the Weight of Financial Stress?
Take this quick checklist. If you find yourself saying “yes” to three or more, it might be time for a financial reset:
- I avoid checking my account balance
- I lose sleep over money
- I skip doctor visits or prescriptions to save money
- I feel guilty spending on myself
- I don’t have any emergency savings
- I’ve argued with my partner about finances recently
- I’ve missed a loan or bill payment in the last 3 months
You’re not alone — we’re here to help!
6 Simple Money Moves to Reduce Stress
You don’t have to make huge changes to feel a difference. Small steps can have a big impact, and we’re here to help you take them.
1. Schedule a Financial Check-In
Meet with a real person at your local AbbyBank branch. We’ll listen to your goals, answer questions, and help you explore tools and options that can support your financial well-being — without any judgment.
“Our bankers are your neighbors. We know what things cost in Wisconsin, and we’re here to help.” — AbbyBank Team
2. Use a Budgeting Tool
Try our mobile banking app to track spending and set savings goals. It’s free, secure, and easy to use, so no spreadsheet required.
3. Automate Your Savings
Start small. Even $10 a week into a separate savings account can give you peace of mind over time.
4. Consolidate Debt
If credit card payments are stressing you out, ask about AbbyBank’s personal loans or lines of credit. This could simplify payments and potentially lower your monthly costs.
5. Emergency Fund Planning
We’ll help you create a cushion for life’s “just in case” moments, without needing to overhaul your lifestyle.
6. Set Financial Boundaries
It’s okay to say no to non-essential spending or gifts. Putting your financial health first is a form of self-care.
Read This Next: Emergency Funds VS Savings Account. What is the Difference?
Why Your Local Bank Makes All the Difference
Let’s be honest — talking about money isn’t always easy. But when you do it with someone you trust, it gets a lot less scary!
At AbbyBank, we’re not a big corporate bank. We’re your community bank. That means:
- You get personalized advice from people who understand Wisconsin life.
- We know local costs, seasonal needs (like heating bills), and small business rhythms.
- You’ll never be just a number, as we’ll always treat your goals like they’re our own.
Ready to start stressing less about money? Stop by a local AbbyBank branch to speak to one of our experts or email us via secure contact form online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AbbyBank really help me reduce financial stress?
Absolutely. Whether you need a budgeting tool, a debt plan, or just someone to talk to, we’re here.
Do I have to be in financial trouble to get help?
Not at all. Many people come in just to check where they stand and find ways to stay on track.
Will I be judged for not knowing how to budget or save?
Never. Our job is to listen, help, and support you, not lecture you.
How do I get started?
Visit your local branch, give us a call at 1-800-288-2229, or send us a message online. We’ll make the next steps simple and stress-free.
Let’s Take the Stress Off
Whether you’re worried about debt, unsure how to save, or just feeling overwhelmed by your bills, we can help.
Start with a simple check-in. Talk to one of our friendly bankers, and we’ll guide you through tools and steps you can take to reduce stress and improve your financial health.
You’ve got enough on your plate. Let’s make money one less thing to worry about.
