4 minute read
Drug Abuse
The Link Between Money and Mental Health CONTINUED
People experiencing mental health problems are less likely to be in paid employment, and more likely to be in low-paid employment. Only 43% of people with mental health problems are in employment, compared to 74% of the general population and 65% of people with other health conditions. People with mental health problems are also overrepresented in high-turnover, low-pay, part-time or temporary work.
Some people experiencing mental health problems will be reliant on benefits when they are unable to work. A third of Housing Benefit claimants (35%) — and nearly half (47%) of adults aged 16-64 in receipt of some kind of out of work benefit — have a common mental disorder, such as depression or generalized anxiety disorder. This rises to two thirds (66%) of people claiming Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), a benefit aimed at those unable to work due to poor health or disability. How does having a mental health problem affect your finances?
Mental health problems can shape how our minds work and how we behave, as well as our emotions. Common symptoms of mental health problems, such as increased impulsivity and memory problems can make it harder to keep on top of monetary management or to get a good deal in complex markets, increasing the likelihood of financial difficulty.
Many people with mental health problems report that their spending patterns and ability to make financial decisions changes significantly during periods of poor mental health. A Money and Mental Health survey of nearly 5,500 people with mental health problems found that, while unwell: • 93% spent more than usual • 92% found it harder to make financial decisions • 74% put off paying bills • 71% avoided dealing with creditors • 56% took out a loan that they would not otherwise have taken out
According to United States of Stress Survey, mental health problems can also make it harder to engage with essential services, such as banks and energy companies. People can struggle to understand bills and remember account details, which can lead to financial difficulties and distress. Four in ten (37%) people who have experienced mental health problems exhibit significant levels of anxiety when dealing with essential services, including symptoms such as a racing heart or trouble breathing.
Vaile Wright, senior director of health care innovation at the American Psychological Association states Many people will not disclose mental health problems to essential services providers, often due to stigma. And a third (36%) of people experiencing a common mental disorder like depression or anxiety have never received a diagnosis, and might not even know what they are experiencing is a clinical mental health problem.
Enkosi Key
Drug Abuse
What is Drug Abuse? The excessive, maladaptive, or addictive use of drugs for nonmedical purposes despite social, psychological, and physical problems that may arise from such use. Abused substances include such agents as anabolic steroids, which are used by some athletes to accelerate muscular development and increase strength and which can cause heart disease, liver damage, and other physical problems. (National Institute on Drug Abuse)
It is easy to recognize the obvious risks of drugs (Meth, Cocaine, Crack, Lean, Opioid addiction), alcohol and nicotine use. People who abuse drugs may appear incoherent, glassy eyed, or sudden change in mood or behavior that can result in negative consequences like car accidents, personal injuries and in some cases may even lead to addiction. But less obvious is the impact substance use has on the developing brain.
In the same way we come to recognize the negative consequences that a pregnant woman’s drinking or smoking can have on developing fetus, we now know there are distinct risks to brain development with teen substance use. Vaping, drinking or using substances can damage the brain’s wiring, increasing the likelihood of learning difficulties and physical and mental health problems during the teen’s years and well into adulthood. Just as a house is still functional with a cracked foundation and faulty wiring, so is the human brain, but neither is optimal. Many types of challenging behaviors are normal during the teen’s years, but experimenting with substances is not one of them. We also need to rethink our perception of norms. It is not true that “everyone vapes” or “everyone drinks”. A variety of common teen experiences can become an excuse or reason for substance use.
Understanding why some teens drink or use substances can be a valuable step toward keeping them healthy and safe. Some teens use drugs and alcohol to overcome insecurities, let their guard down and feel confident in social settings. If you or anyone you know is battling Drug Abuse call 1-800-950-6264.
Darnell Wright
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