Depressed About Money

We’ve all noticed the physical changes of the recession – unemployment, debt, repossession etc, but no-one has really looked into the emotional effects. But counselling charity Relate says that young people are feeling the strain of the repression keenly.

Even teenagers are saying that the repression is changing their lives drastically as money is getting harder and harder to come by.

Becky Apperley is 21, and says her financial situation is getting to her. After being unemployed for 3 years now she still isn’t having any luck finding work.

“A lot of the time I feel suicidal. I do actually self-harm sometimes, although I’ve stopped it now,” she admitted.

“It wasn’t because of the fact that I was depressed over other things, it was because I was depressed about money.”

Young Facing Tougher Times?

This may seem like an extreme example, but according to Relate, 3% of the under-25s they see claim to have similar thoughts.

Paula Hall from the charity says it’s vital not to forget the problem the recession also causes for the younger generation too.

She said:  “Half of Relate counsellors say the young people they see are worrying really significantly about money.

“It’s high up on their agenda. It’s something they want to talk about in sessions.”

21% of young people also fear losing their home. One 16 year old said: “I’m actually having to move out this year, because my mum can’t afford to have me live there. I’m worried I won’t find a house for quite a while.”

Families Feel The Strain

Another 21% of young people are finding it more difficult to get along with their families, most likely caused by the stress of the financial situation and the strain it is providing on everyone.

19% of youngsters are worried about their careers and their futures. One 15 year old has just finished her GCSEs at college and is worried about getting a job in her chosen field of photography. But she is trying to stay positive.

She said: “I kind of just look on the bright side of things.

“I do think I am going to be able to make it. I’m only 15 now and things will change.”

Relate says that this is the kind of attitude all young people should be taking: “It’s important to get that balance between being realistic and being hopeful.

“We aren’t going to be in a recession forever and we are still a fairly wealthy country. It’s bound to turn around.”

What Do You Think?

Is the recession affecting young people worse than others, or is it just the stress of their first big recession that makes them feel they have been worst affected? We would love to know your thoughts and opinions. Leave your comments here.