The Costs of Neglecting Your Mental Health

How it can cost you your relationships and your money.

These days, most of us have made the shift to prioritizing our mental health. Unfortunately, some either haven’t made the change or may not truly understand why it’s necessary. Why is this an issue? Because there are many costs to neglecting your mental health. Some more obvious than others but are no less impactful when they begin to pile up on you. We’ll look at them from these three perspectives:

Personal costs: Neglecting your mental health can lead to a decline in your overall well-being. You may experience increased stress, anxiety, depression, and the list goes on. These problems can make it difficult to function in your daily life, including at work, school, and relationships. Speaking of which. . .
Social costs: Neglecting your mental health can also damage your relationships with others. You may withdraw from friends and family, or you may become more irritable and argumentative. This can lead to conflict and isolation. And we know no man is an island.
Economic costs: Neglecting your mental health can also have a financial impact. You may miss work or school due to your mental health problems. You may also need to spend money on treatment, such as therapy or medication. Speaking from experience, this can also lead to you outright losing your job. Not good for your bank account.

Personal costs of neglecting your mental health

If you don’t look out for yourself, who will? There are so many things in this world we can’t control, so we do ourselves a disservice when we don’t grab hold of what we can. Here are just a few things that can go south when you don’t take care of yourself.

Increased stress, anxiety, and depression. When you don’t take care of your mental health, you’re more likely to experience stress, anxiety, and depression. These problems can make it difficult to function in your daily life.
Reduced productivity at work or school. When you’re struggling with your mental health, it can be hard to focus, concentrate, or care. This can lead to reduced productivity at work or school.
Increased risk of substance abuse. People who neglect their mental health are more likely to abuse alcohol or drugs. Self-medicating has become worse with Covid as many felt trapped and didn’t know of other alternatives. Unfortunately, substance abuse will only make mental health problems worse.
Reduced quality of life. Neglecting your mental health can lead to a decline in your overall quality of life. You may experience less joy, less motivation, and less satisfaction with your life.
Increased risk of suicide: With all of the above piling on, suicide tends to be the ultimate crossroads they come to. People who are struggling with their mental health are more likely to think about or attempt suicide.

Social costs of neglecting your mental health

No one should have to face the world alone but when you don’t take care of your mental health, you may likely find yourself doing just that. Here are just a few things you may lose if you don’t take that extra time to get yourself right.

Damaged relationships. When you’re struggling with your mental health, you may withdraw from friends and family. This can lead to damaged relationships. What’s worse, even if they want to help, you may be less likely to accept that open hand.
Increased conflict. People who are struggling with their mental health may be more irritable and argumentative. This can lead to conflict with others. Again, this can further damage your relationships, both personal and professional.
Social isolation. People who neglect their mental health may become socially isolated. This can lead to loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Starting to see the trend? It’s all a snowball effect.
Increased stigma. People with mental health problems often face stigma. This can make it difficult for them to get the help they need. Now, that’s not to say that it’s fair, but it is an unfortunate reality that we should be aware of.

The financial costs of neglecting your mental health

Let it be known, taking care of yourself is directly related to taking care of your money. Your earning power, your ability to be independent, and your ability to take care of others are directly derived from you being your best self. Consider these extra costs the next time you decide to not give yourself that personal day you know you need.

Cost of treatment. Mental health treatment can be expensive. Therapy, medication, and other treatments can add up. Where you live will not only determine the cost but whether or not they accept insurance.
Lost productivity. When you’re struggling with your mental health, you may miss work or school. This can lead to lost income. Or, as previously mentioned, you can just straight up lose your job. Really not good for your bank account, trust me.
Increased healthcare costs. People with mental health problems are more likely to use healthcare services. This can lead to increased healthcare costs. Ignoring issues will only lead to higher costs up the road.
Reduced earning potential. People with mental health problems are more likely to earn less money over their lifetime.
Increased risk of disability. People with mental health problems are more likely to become disabled. Whether this is from incidents due to a diminished mental state, undiagnosed imbalances, or something else, it is an outcome many don’t consider. This, of course, can lead to lost income and increased healthcare costs.

How can you combat that cost?

Because we are always solution-oriented here, let’s look at some ways to first combat the personal and social costs of neglecting your mental health.

Get enough sleep: Face it, mom was right. A good night’s sleep or even a nap during the day can really make a difference in your attitude and cognitive functions.
Eat a healthy diet: Snickers may not be the healthiest thing in the world, but they’re right; you’re not you when you’re hungry. Eating nutritious foods gives your body the fuel it needs to function properly.
Exercise regularly: Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. So remember, working out isn’t just for shredded abs, it can actually keep a smile on your face.
Spend time with loved ones: This one is going to feel counterintuitive after discussing our costs earlier but, social support is important for your mental health. While not always the case, sometimes you have to get out there in the world, touch some grass, and show your face (especially you extroverts out there).
Learn to manage stress: Stress can take a toll on your mental health. There are many different ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time in nature. Or, you can be like me, and spend socially unacceptable amounts of time playing Warframe. Whatever helps you unwind.
Seek professional help if needed: Of course, sometimes your mental health isn’t something you can manage alone. If you’re struggling to cope with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can help you understand your thoughts and feelings, and develop coping mechanisms.

Managing the financial costs of mental health care

There is a cost to all things in medicine but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few ways to lessen that financial impact.

Check with your insurance company to see what mental health services are covered.
Look for affordable therapy options, such as sliding scale therapy or therapy provided by a nonprofit organization.
Ask your doctor or mental health professional about any financial assistance programs that may be available to you.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or a support group.

It is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many people who struggle with mental health problems. With the right help, you can manage your mental health and live a full and productive life. You deserve to feel good about yourself and reach your goals. Never forget that.

Writer, rhymer, gamer: the easiest way to define the man known as Kenneth Medford. I’m a simple man who loves to learn and loves to help and I wander the digital world trying to find ways to sate my hunger for both. Basically, I’m Galactus but helpful.

Check out my other work here or reach out to me on LinkedIn.