Debt can strain young adults during the holidays. Experts have tips on coping

Credit card balances often climb at the end of the year, and for many young adults, the added financial pressure can take a toll on mental health.

Assistant professor at University of Georgia’s School of Social Work Gaurav Sinha, told Georgia Public Broadcasting that financial strain and emotional well-being are closely linked — particularly for people ages 18 to 34. He said debt can contribute to stress, anxiety and, in more serious cases, depression.

“People tend to buy gifts, host parties, travel, and you have to put a lot of thinking in that, right?” Sinha said. “People constantly, they stress about like, ‘How much I can spend? What should I buy?’”

He said it’s important to recognize when financial goals and holiday expectations are competing for attention. That tension can weigh heavily on mental health, especially when people feel obligated to stretch their budgets to meet social or family expectations.

Sinha recommends carving out time to rest and taking short breaks while planning seasonal activities can help ease the emotional load that often comes with holiday spending.