Money and Mental Health

Reflecting on how finances intersect with mental health naturally surfaces questions about the affordability of therapy itself. Money issues can be a significant factor that contributes to anxiety, depression and low self esteem. But how many people who could benefit from therapy to gain support for these issues don’t pursue it because the cost of private therapy is prohibitive to pay out of pocket, or because their household lacks sufficient benefits? Challenges to accessing therapeutic support is also not separate from wider societal factors, including the rise of cost of living –with groceries, housing, material goods and pretty much everything else soaring in price, all of which cut into disposable income that could be used for self care, life-giving recreation, or mental health supports such as therapy sessions.

Many therapy clinics understand finances can be a barrier and recognize that there is uneven access to resources across socioeconomic realities; if the cost of therapy is stopping you from reaching out, know that sliding scale sessions are available, and we want to talk with you about how to make therapy possible with your unique circumstances, or point you to local resources that work for you.

Thinking about and talking directly about financial realities is deeply personal, and can bring up emotions such as shame, anger, frustration and many others—know that it is also brave to voice your needs and stay with what comes up. Honouring each person’s unique circumstances and needs is something we hold up at GJ Counselling, and strive to live out with respect and care.