Weathering the Storm: Coping with Financial Stress and Life's Uncertainty

In today's world, many of us find ourselves lying awake at night, minds racing with worry. Will I be able to afford rent next month? What happens if my job is cut? How will I manage if groceries keep getting more expensive? These stressors are heavy and you're not alone in worrying about them.

Between rising costs, job instability, and a constant stream of bad news, it’s no surprise that financial stress is one of the leading causes of anxiety and depression in adults. At Connected Therapy, we want you to know that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed and there are ways to cope, even when life feels uncertain.

Why Financial Stress Hits So Hard

Money often represents safety, stability, and freedom. So, when that part of life feels shaky, it's completely normal to feel anxious or uncertain. You might notice signs like:

• Trouble sleeping or feeling constantly tired

• Feeling easily irritated or emotionally drained

• Headaches, stomachaches, or general tension

• Pulling away from others or struggling to stay focused

• Worrying about the future and feeling stuck

This kind of stress builds up over time. And the truth is, even people who seem like they "have it together" are feeling the pressure, too.

Practical Ways to Cope

You may not be able to control the cost of living or the job market, but you can take steps to support yourself during tough times.

1. Focus on What You Can Do Today

Try breaking things into small, manageable steps. Review your budget, look into community resources (see below), or make a list of priorities. Even small actions can create a sense of direction and control.

2. Be Mindful of Media Overload

It’s important to stay informed, but constant news updates and social media can make everything feel worse. Set limits on how often you check in. Maybe once or twice a day is enough.

3. Talk to Someone

Stress is heavier when you carry it alone. Talk to a friend, a loved one, or a therapist. Saying your worries out loud can ease the tension and remind you that you’re not alone. Or sometimes, even just getting your thoughts down on paper can release some of the stress.

4. Use Grounding Tools

When your mind is racing, grounding exercises can help. Try deep breathing, a short walk, or naming five things you can see and hear in the room. These simple tools can help bring you back to the present.

5. Seek Support

Therapy can be a helpful space to process the pressure, find clarity, and learn new coping skills. You don’t need to wait for a crisis to ask for help. Getting support now can prevent burnout later.

You Are Not Alone

Times are hard. It's okay to feel scared or uncertain. What matters is how we care for ourselves and each other through those moments.

At Connected Therapy, we’re here to help you build resilience, even when life feels out of control. Whether you're facing job loss, mounting bills, or simply the emotional weight of “too much,” we want to walk with you through it.

You’re doing the best you can and that matters.

Need support?

📞 Call us at (775) 622-4799 to schedule an appointment or learn more.

In crisis? Reach out to:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)

• Reno Behavioral Healthcare Hospital

Other Resources:

Community Resources for Financial Assistance

1. Nevada 2-1-1📞 Dial 211🌐 www.nevada211.orgA free, statewide service connecting individuals with local help for rent, utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and more.

2. The Salvation Army – Reno Corps📍 1931 Sutro St, Reno, NV 89512📞 (775) 688-4555🌐 reno.salvationarmy.orgOffers emergency support with rent, utilities, food, and clothing.

3. Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada📍 500 E. 4th St, Reno, NV 89512📞 (775) 322-7073🌐 www.ccsnn.orgProvides rental assistance, food pantry services, case management, and other support for low-income individuals and families.

4. Reno Housing Authority📞 (775) 329-3630🌐 www.renoha.orgSupports individuals and families with affordable housing programs and Section 8 vouchers.

5. Washoe County Human Services Agency📞 (775) 785-8600🌐 www.washoecounty.gov/hsaProvides access to SNAP (food stamps), TANF (cash assistance), Medicaid, and utility help through local assistance programs.

6. Nevada Energy Assistance Program (EAP)📞 (800) 992-0900🌐 dwss.nv.gov/EnergyAssists low-income households with their electric and gas utility bills.

7. Eddy House (for youth ages 18–24)📍 888 Willow St, Reno, NV 89502📞 (775) 384-1129🌐 www.eddyhouse.orgSupports youth and young adults with shelter, food, housing help, and employment support.

National Resources:

8. United Way📞 1-866-211-9966🌐 www.unitedway.orgOffers connections to local food, utility, and rent support services, and resources for job training and financial literacy.

9. LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)🌐 www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/energy-assistanceA national program offering financial support to help with home heating and cooling costs.

10. Modest Needs Foundation🌐 www.modestneeds.orgProvides small grants to individuals and families who are facing short-term financial emergencies and are at risk of falling into deeper hardship.