Sick of Debt?
Or, more accurately, sick from debt?
There is an epidemic plaguing many people today and it’s called debt stress.
Credit card companies and retail outlets have made it easier to obtain credit on demand and they are perfectly agreeable to generous credit limits. But all of this “generosity” comes with a high price tag – exorbitant interest rates that make it relatively easy to amass a lot of debt in a short period of time and minimum payments that barely put a dent in the amount owed.
The average homeowner has 10 credit cards, each with an average interest rate of 19%. Paying only the minimum payment means it would take years to pay each card off. And all of this debt is causing a lot of stress and health-related concerns for plenty of people.
Mental disorders, migraines, heart disease, high blood pressure, weight gain/loss, insomnia – these are just a few of the by-products of debt stress. For some, spending is an addiction, just like alcohol, drugs or gambling, and it needs to be treated in much the same way.
What can you do about your overwhelming and out-of-control debt? Here are some suggestions to help you regain control of your debt and your health:
- Seek the advice and guidance of a reputable credit counselor.
- Contact your creditors and advise them of your situation before you are late or miss a payment; many will work with you to set up financially feasible payment schedules.
- Reduce spending and stop incurring new debt.
- Use a debit card instead of a credit card.
- Use money in a savings account that is earning minimal interest, to pay off any high-interest credit cards.
It is possible, with determination and the adoption of some new spending rules, to regain your credit and your personal health. It starts with admitting that you have a problem and moving on from there to help yourself.
Patient Login
Dr. Mark Asks...
