Regaining Control: How Depression Affected My Body and Wallet
After a year of struggling with depression, I finally reached my breaking point. I had let my health and fitness slide, and it showed. At 5’4″, I had ballooned to 150 pounds, a far cry from my usual 125 pounds. The number on the scale was a harsh reminder of the toll my depression had taken on my body.
The Road to Depression
It all started when my long-term boyfriend broke up with me to be with someone else. I was devastated, and my depression spiraled out of control. I stopped exercising, cooking healthy meals, and taking care of myself. Instead, I turned to comfort foods, happy hours, and late nights out. My depression had taken over, and I lost sight of what was important to me – my health and well-being.
The Financial Toll
As I began to recover, I realized that my depression had not only affected my body but also my finances. I had racked up thousands of dollars in unnecessary expenses, including happy hours, restaurants, and weekend bars. The total damage? A staggering $3,522 over eight months. That’s $440.25 per month – money that could have been invested, saved, or spent on something more meaningful.
The Hidden Costs of Unhealthy Habits
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that being healthy means spending money on fad diets, gyms, and “health food.” But what about the cost of living an unhealthy lifestyle? The cost of overeating, drinking frequently, and neglecting our bodies can be just as expensive. In my case, it meant increased grocery expenses, wasted money on processed foods, and a general lack of awareness about my spending habits.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, I realize that taking care of my body is not just about physical health; it’s also about financial responsibility. By prioritizing my well-being, I can avoid unnecessary expenses and make more intentional choices about how I spend my money. It’s a hard lesson to learn, but one that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.
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