Implications of Mental Health and Finance in Romantic Relationships

Mental health and finance can have significant implications in romantic relationships. Poor mental health, such as depression or anxiety, can lead to financial problems, such as difficulty managing money or making poor financial decisions. On the other hand, financial stress or insecurity can also contribute to mental health issues.

The following article was submitted by

Mr Brighton Lupeska.

A mental health professional working at Lighthouse Trust, Kawale Health Centre. Lilongwe

When one partner is struggling with mental health or financial problems, it can put a strain on the relationship and lead to conflicts and tension. It can also lead to power imbalances, where one partner may have more control over financial decisions and resources.

It's important for couples to have open and honest communication with each other about their mental health and financial situations. They should also have a plan in place to manage financial issues and seek help if necessary.

Additionally, couples should consider seeking professional counseling or therapy to work through any mental health or financial challenges that may be impacting their relationship. This can help them to develop effective strategies for managing these issues and improving their overall well-being as a couple.

Developing positive mental health and finance management in relationships requires a combination of effective communication, planning, and self-care strategies.

Here are a few steps that couples can take:

Open and honest communication: Couples should have regular conversations about their mental health and financial situations. This can help to build trust and understanding between partners, and can also help to identify and address any issues that may be impacting their relationship.

Financial planning: Couples should develop a budget and plan for managing their finances. This can include setting financial goals, creating a savings plan, and discussing how to allocate resources.

Self-care: It is important for both partners to take care of their mental and emotional well-being. This can include engaging in activities that bring them joy, practicing mindfulness, and seeking professional help if/when needed.

Seek professional help: When couples are experiencing significant stress or difficulty managing their mental health or finances, they should consider seeking professional counseling or therapy. This can help them to develop effective strategies for managing these issues and improving their overall well-being as a couple.

Be supportive and understanding: Be empathetic and try to understand your partner's perspective, and offer support when they are going through a tough time.

Be flexible: Be open to changes and be willing to adapt to new situations, whether they be positive or negative.

By taking these steps, couples can work together to improve their mental health and financial wellbeing, and create stronger and more resilient relationships.

Mr Brighton Lupeska

Mental Health Professionals in Northern Malawi

St John of God Hospitaller Services

01311690 / 01311495

John Banda (Psychosocial Counsellor)

Moyale Barrakcs

0994 434 012 johnalickbanda05@gmail.com

Precious Chipeta (Psychosocial Counsellor)

0886 687 857 kanyakulapreciouschipeta@gmail.com

Buxton Shaba (Psychosocial Counsellor)

CEO Youth Mental Health Warrior. Mzuzu Katoto

0996 560 666

William Mackson Phiri 0881 072 623

Justina Msofi (Psychosocial Counsellor)

Luwinga Secondary School

0888 505 043 jasstinamsofi@yahoo.com

Jimmy Kambalame

Lighthouse Trust, Central Hospital. Mzuzu

0999 944 899

Working on your self-esteem is not difficult. You need to first acknowledge that you have a poor sense of self-esteem, thereafter you can begin to take the rights steps in addressing it. Change will not be immediate, it will take time and effort like most skills in life.

Steps you can take to work on your self-esteem include:

Accept your flaws – no one is perfect out there

Avoid comparison with others – it will only make you feel worse

Practice Self-care – a very underrated but vital part of life

Be realistic with your goals – perfectionism is not your friend

Move your body – be it through exercise, dance, walking, etc

Working on Self-esteem is something that anyone can do through research and effort. However, there are people who are trained in how to guide or support you as you go through such a process.

Should you want to develop a healthy and positive self-esteem, reach out to a life coach or mental health worker for more information

You not loving yourself and playing small does not serve the world. Self-love requires you to let go of who you once imagined yourself to be, and embrace who you are becoming.

The love you have for yourself should bring joy, happiness, and life!