On 20/12, Doctor Tran Thi Hong Thu, Deputy Director of Mai Huong Day Psychiatric Hospital, reported that a female patient sought treatment for persistent chest pain and prolonged shortness of breath. Prior to this, she had undergone health checks at several medical facilities, but doctors found no underlying physical illness. Psychological assessments and examinations at Mai Huong Hospital diagnosed the patient with an anxiety disorder accompanied by depression, stemming from financial stress. The doctor prescribed an inpatient treatment regimen combined with psychological therapy.
Three years ago, the patient was an ideal role model for her friends, earning over 1,000 USD monthly right after graduation. Her comfortable income allowed her to confidently purchase a house on an installment plan and provide for her parents in their hometown. However, recent economic difficulties led to work stagnation and a significant drop in income, while fixed expenses remained unchanged. Tens of millions of dong in monthly bank debt, coupled with the responsibility of supporting her family, created immense pressure, making her hesitant to consider marriage.
Facing financial hardship, she resorted to using credit cards for expenses, accepting high interest rates, which caused her debt to escalate. To compensate for the shortfall, the patient worked through the night, suffering from insufficient sleep, leading to exhaustion, irritability, and persistent negative thoughts.
Doctor Thu observed an increasing number of young individuals seeking treatment for anxiety disorders caused by financial pressure. This group often equates their income with self-worth and is easily influenced by the glamorous images portrayed on social media. Additionally, limited personal financial management skills lead them to lose control over spending, make poor decisions, and spiral into debt.
Although there are no specific statistics on financial-related mental disorders among young people, studies estimate that about 14% of the population experiences anxiety and depression, with economic burdens being a primary contributing factor. Experts warn that untreated financial stress can lead to severe depression or chronic anxiety, devastating mental health and quality of life.
Thuy Quynh
