Debt can be a cause, a symptom of serious mental ill-health in UAE

One of the most common initial side effects of stress incurred by debt was headaches.

Dubai - Nearly five per cent of the UAE'S population is struggling with depression, and it is expats that are hit the hardest.

The number of patients, especially expatriates, suffering from stress related to financial issues, depression and loneliness are increasing in the UAE, according to health experts.
One of the most common initial side effects of stress incurred by debt was headaches. A study by The Priory Group found that young adults, in particular, were suffering significantly from aches and pains caused by debt, with nearly one in three adults aged 25-34 experiencing regular headaches. 
A counselling psychologist at The Priory Wellbeing Centre, Dubai Healthcare City, Tanya Dharamshi, said that her team is seeing an increasing number of patients suffering from stress where debt is a significant component. "The relationship between debt and psychological distress is complex and it can be both a cause and symptom of mental ill health," she said. 
Nearly five per cent of the UAE'S population is struggling with depression, and it is expats that are hit the hardest. "The cost of buying or renting property, divorce, commuting and holiday costs, childcare, school fees, and the rising cost of living generally - all this competes with trying to save for retirement." 
It can easily overwhelm, leaving people stressed out about money - stress that puts them at higher risk of lower-quality mental and physical health.
"Overspending during the festive season, in particular, can leave families with serious financial worries in January and February," she added. "Debt can arise from 'impulse control' problems that can result in excessive behaviours, such as shopping, especially when it's online. In our consumer-driven society, we might regard an addiction to shopping as a manifestation of mental illness."
Dharamshi said there were many emotional and psychological responses people may experience as a result of credit card debt.
Dr Lanalle Dunn, founder of The Chiron Clinic in Dubai, said that missing friends and family can cause feelings of loneliness and isolation in a foreign place. "It is human nature to try to associate with a group of society to feel connected and included. People often display their social standing and prestige through displays of dress and lifestyle, irrespective of the result of debt, which is now far easier to accommodate with credit cards and loans," she said.

Exhaustion