April is Stress Awareness Month, a time to recognize how stress affects our daily lives and explore ways to manage it. Financial stress is one of the most common stressors Americans face, impacting mental and physical health, relationships, and overall wellbeing. If you feel overwhelmed by money worries, you’re not alone—and there are ways to take back control. 

In a previous FinFit Learn article, we explored the different types of money stress and how to reduce it. Financial stress can come in many forms, from worrying about debt to struggling with unexpected expenses or feeling unprepared for the future. Understanding what kind of financial stress, you’re facing is the first step toward managing it. 

How financial stress impacts your wellbeing 

Money-related stress can lead to: 

• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating 

• Increased anxiety, depression, or frustration 

• Avoidance behaviors like ignoring bills or avoiding conversations about money 

• Strained relationships due to financial tension 

These effects can take a toll over time, making it even harder to focus on financial wellness. But just as stress doesn’t appear overnight, reducing it takes time and small, consistent steps. 

Managing financial stress with small changes 

If financial stress is weighing on you, it’s okay to start small. The previous FinFit Learn article emphasizes the importance of identifying the root cause of your money stress and creating a plan to address it. Whether it’s paying off debt, building an emergency fund, or learning to budget better, the key is to focus on progress—not perfection. 

One of the best ways to relieve financial stress is to talk about it. Many people feel ashamed or alone in their money struggles but seeking guidance can help ease the burden. If your employer offers free financial coaching through FinFit, logging into your account and speaking with a financial coach could help you:

• Gain clarity on your current financial situation 

• Develop a realistic plan to reduce financial stress 

• Feel more confident in your financial decisions 

Sometimes, simply having a plan in place can bring immediate relief and a greater sense of control.