ABC of Mental Health

Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health, your partner in the journey to better mental health — one newsletter at a time. This week’s theme is Relationship with Money. We bring it to your inbox this Thursday to make your Thursday a little therapeutic! 

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One relevant recommendation:

Write a Letter to Money: Write a long-form letter to money. Think about exploring your relationship with it, how it was formed, important memories around money and what you need from money to feel safe, secure, and supported.

Two quotes on Money and Success:

Ayn Rand, a Russian-American philosopher and novelist known for her advocacy of individualism, rational self-interest, and laissez-faire capitalism, describes money astutely:

"Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver."

An unknown author’s thoughts on money, make us reflect on the true nature of wealth in life: 

"The real measure of your wealth is how much you'd be worth if you lost all your money."

Three TherapyShorts from TST ^{(on understanding and improving your relationship with money)}

1. Identifying Your Money Script: Your money script refers to the beliefs and attitudes you have about money that influence your financial decisions and behaviours. Identifying your money script involves recognising the messages you've internalised about money from your upbringing, culture, and personal experiences. Example: Suppose you grew up hearing phrases like "Money is the root of all evil" or "You have to work hard to earn money." These beliefs may have instilled a sense of fear or scarcity around money, leading you to hoard money or avoid financial risks. By identifying these scripts, you can begin to challenge and change them.

2. Understanding the Origins: Understanding the origins of your money beliefs involves examining the experiences and influences that shaped your relationship with money. This could include family dynamics, cultural norms, past financial struggles or successes, and societal messages about money. Example: If your parents struggled with debt and constantly stressed about money during your childhood, you may have developed a fear-based approach to finances. Reflecting on these experiences can help you recognise how they've influenced your current financial behaviours and attitudes.

3. Restructuring New Ways of Being with Money: Restructuring your relationship with money involves intentionally changing your beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours to cultivate a healthier and more positive approach to finances. This may include setting financial goals, creating a budget, practising gratitude for what you have, and seeking professional guidance if needed. Example: If you've identified a scarcity mindset as a result of your upbringing, you can restructure your relationship with money by adopting an abundance mindset. This could involve practising gratitude for what you have, focusing on opportunities for growth and abundance, and creating a financial plan that aligns with your values and goals.

Love and light,

The Social Therapist

PS: Where do I keep my money?