Dear Chuck,

Is there such a thing as depression brought on by financial stress? We have reached midlife and have very little to show for it. It seems we had money but not enough common sense to set some aside for our retirement years, which are quickly approaching. 

Depressed About Our Finances 

Dear Depressed About Our Finances,  

I am sorry that you are experiencing depression; your comments remind me of what Christ taught us: “Life does not consist in the abundance of possessions” (Luke 12:15 NIV). Your finances should not determine your worth, happiness, or meaning and purpose in life. 

Have you ever made a list of the things that have brought joy to your life that money cannot buy?  It is a great exercise to fight off the grip of depression. The list could include friendships, shared experiences, love, children, church, and the things you have done to serve God and others. This will help you see the truth that your true riches in life do not come from money and possessions. 

Change Is Possible 

It is true that the use of money and resources early in life strongly impacts one’s future. The reality of past spending and lack of preparation can cause deep guilt and fear.

According to an article at Mental Health Hotline, the toll of financial stress has been linked to the following:

• Irritability and mood swings.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Lack of concentration.
• Panic attacks.
• Feelings of hopelessness or despair.

Thankfully, those actions or past mistakes do not have to be final. The financial, emotional, and relational challenges are real, but it is never too late to change course. In fact, midlife can be the most powerful season for transformation because your motivation is stronger, your awareness is higher, and your understanding of what habits need to change is clear. Comparing your life to others may only add to the financial stress. The strain can lead to hopelessness if relief is not in sight.

“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself.
Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” 

(Matthew 6:34 ESV)

Take Agency—Plan for a Better FutureSome simple steps can set you on a path to find hope:

1. Gain clarity. Stress often grows in the unknown. Face the numbers: income, debt, spending. Set specific goals, and create a budget that allows you to get there. A simple plan, even if not perfect, can bring a sense of control and direction.
2. Be consistent. Progress is made by changes, even small ones, like building an emergency fund, paying down debt, and automating savings. Delay purchases, and reduce unnecessary expenses. Focus on what you can control to begin to build margin. This is foundational for financial stability and hope. 
3. Renew your heart and mind with spiritual truth. Ultimate security is not found in worldly wealth but in God. He is the source of true riches. Money is simply a tool, not a measure of your value. It does not define your worth, and it does not last. 

Money Doesn’t Last—Eternal Riches Do 

What we accumulate on earth can be lost, stolen, or devalued. It will ultimately all be left behind. No matter how big or how small your net worth is, you won’t be taking it with you. We come into the world naked and leave the same way. Remember, a naked person has no pockets.  

Earthly wealth will provide temporary comfort and hope for provision later in life. But eternal riches will grant you lasting peace and reward. Choose to live with an eternal perspective. You will find that stewarding what God gives you has a whole new meaning and purpose. 

Take this time in your lives to surrender everything to Him. Then ask Him to give you the wisdom, discipline, and desire to live as His financial manager. He is faithful, merciful, and abounding in steadfast love and kindness. Refuse to listen to the attacks of your accuser—even if you have setbacks. Stay the course, and remain faithful to Him. 

One day, you can look forward to hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master” (Matthew 25:21 ESV).

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 

 (Matthew 6:19–21 ESV)

Financial stress isn’t just a numbers issue; it’s a trust issue. Inviting God into our decisions replaces fear, guilt, and anxiety with His peace that passes all understanding.

Additional Resources

• 7 Rules for True Riches
• 30-Day Reset
• 5 Reasons Your Finances Are About More Than Money

If credit card debt is adding to your stress, consider reaching out to Christian Credit Counselors. They are a trusted partner of Crown and are able to help consolidate debt and get one on the road to financial freedom.

This article was originally published on The Christian Post on April 3, 2026.