Philadelphians are feeling the impact of rising gas prices and the higher cost of groceries. Everyday activities like commuting to work or buying food becoming more expensive can take a serious toll on your mental and emotional well-being.

When financial stressors pile up, worry and uncertainty increase. Over time, this can show up as:

• trouble sleeping
• irritability
• difficulty concentrating
• feeling overwhelmed

These symptoms pile up and can result in more conflict in your home life, which can create a cycle of stress that affects everyone in ways that go far beyond the wallet.

How Financial Stress Affects Daily Life

Financial stress can affect how you feel, think, and connect with others. When you are worried about gas money, you may feel anxious every time you start the car. If the price of groceries makes you constantly rework your budget, you may feel exhausted by all the decisions you have to make.

These pressures can lead to arguments about money, which spills over into arguments about parenting or responsibilities at home. Over time, this stress can impact relationships, physical health, and overall quality of life.

These reactions are common responses to difficult circumstances, not personal failures.

Where to Find Support

Resources are available to help you manage both financial stress and its impact on mental health. Taking one small step to ask questions or seek support can make a real difference.

• Give yourself a quick check-up from the neck up with our free, anonymous screening tool.
• Check the calendar for local wellness events.
• Review the resources section to find information on counseling, addiction support, trauma services, and more.
• If you have health insurance, contact your insurance provider to learn what mental health services are covered, including telehealth options that may reduce commuting costs.
• Check with your employer’s Human Resources department if you have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or other mental health benefits. These programs often offer short-term counseling and referrals at no cost.
• Call Community Behavioral Health (CBH) Member Services at 1-888-545-2600 to ask about eligibility for Medicaid and local behavioral health services.
• Ask about providers who offer sliding-scale fees, adjusting the cost of services based on income. Many therapists and clinics in Philadelphia use this model to make care more affordable.
• Explore community clinics such as Esperanza Health Center and Puentes de Salud, which offer medical and behavioral health services with costs aligned to your income and insurance status.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, you can call, text, or chat 988 Philly for free, confidential help 24/7.

Wellness That Won’t Hurt the Wallet

• We Walk PHL is a free walking group that meets at various public parks. Check out the schedule.
• Use the Free Library of Philadelphia for movies and books. Once you see how much is available, you might be tempted to cancel one of your streaming services. Don’t have a library card? Sign up online.
• You’ll also find health programs held at various libraries throughout the city. Rock climbing at Cecil B. Moore, senior strength training at Whitman, and chair yoga at Bustleton.
• The library also offers free programs like cooking classes, art exhibits, after school enrichment, and other events for kids and teens. Explore the programs.

A Message of Hope

These are challenging times, and it is understandable to feel anxious or discouraged as costs continue to rise. Reaching out for help, whether about your mental health, your finances, or both, is a sign of strength.

You do not have to manage these stressors alone. Talking with a counselor, connecting with a community clinic, or sharing your experiences with someone you trust are all meaningful steps.

Taking the step to ask for help can move you and your family toward greater stability, hope, and peace of mind.