A recent study reveals that 70% of Gen Z report struggling to sleep due to financial anxiety. As this generation navigates rising living costs, student debt, and uncertain job markets, the stress of managing money and securing a stable future is taking a toll not only on their wallets but also on their mental and physical health.

Financial Well-Being as Health

Traditionally, health has been defined in terms of physical fitness and mental clarity. But experts now emphasize that financial well-being is a critical pillar of overall health. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), financial stress is one of the leading causes of anxiety among young adults, often manifesting in sleep disturbances, depression, and difficulty concentrating. The World Health Organization (WHO) also highlights that economic insecurity is a major social determinant of health, influencing both mental resilience and physical outcomes.

The Toll of Financial Insecurity

Financial stress doesn’t just affect bank accounts—it impacts the body and mind. Chronic worry about bills, rent, or student loans can lead to:

• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and restless nights.

• Heightened anxiety and depression, as uncertainty about the future weighs heavily.

• Physical symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, and weakened immune response.

Research from the Harvard School of Public Health shows that prolonged financial strain can increase cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone, which in turn disrupts sleep cycles and overall wellness.

Coping Strategies for Financial Stress

Managing financial anxiety requires both practical and emotional approaches. Experts recommend:

• Financial planning: Creating budgets, tracking expenses, and setting realistic savings goals.

• Seeking support: Talking with financial advisors, mentors, or trusted friends to reduce isolation.

• Healthy coping mechanisms: Practicing mindfulness, exercise, or journaling to manage stress.

• Education and resources: Programs like the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) provide tools to help young adults build financial literacy and confidence.

A Collective Challenge

Gen Z’s struggles reflect broader economic pressures, including inflation, housing costs, and student debt burdens. Addressing these challenges requires systemic solutions, but individuals can still take steps to protect their mental health. Building financial resilience is not just about money—it’s about creating stability that supports emotional and physical well-being.

A Call to Share and Support

This study is a powerful reminder that taking care of our finances is just as important as caring for our bodies and minds. By sharing experiences, tips, and coping strategies, communities can help reduce the stigma around financial stress and foster a culture of support.

References (plain text):

• American Psychological Association – Financial stress and mental health (2023)

• World Health Organization – Social determinants of health and economic insecurity (2024)

• Harvard School of Public Health – Research on stress, cortisol, and sleep (2023)

• National Endowment for Financial Education – Financial literacy resources for young adults (2024)

• CNBC – Coverage of Gen Z financial anxiety and sleep studies (2025)