Science for Society: Financial Debt and Mental Well-Being

Finances and financial decision-making play key roles in everyday life. Particularly in capitalist markets with fewer social safety nets, having and using money is critical not only for enjoyment, but for meeting survival needs such as housing, food, and medical care. Thus, when people find themselves in debt after a great hardship, debt may pose a consequential risk factor for increased stress. This panel will discuss the impact of financial debt on psychological well-being.