Bankruptcy brings with it a whole host of emotions. It’s normal to feel a mix of anxiety, fear, and, eventually, relief. It’s unreasonable for someone seeking bankruptcy to endure the entire process without any hesitation, but it also shouldn’t be something that takes over your life or introduces unnecessary hardship. Today, we will discuss what issues are commonly faced by those considering bankruptcy and how to replace your fear or anxiety with confidence.
The Common Emotional Impacts of Bankruptcy
Financial instability often leads to significant stress and worry. Many people fear judgment from family, friends, and colleagues, causing them to retreat inward and making the situation feel even more isolating.
Personal relationships might be strained even if you are open and honest with those around you. If someone financially relies on another in whole or in part, they, too, can have concerns about the future that culminate in communication and relationship issues.
These emotions are a common response to financial challenges, but that fact doesn’t prevent emotional issues from befalling someone who is struggling. Individuals facing bankruptcy must acknowledge and manage these feelings to move forward with confidence.
Strategies to Build Confidence Through Bankruptcy
Bankruptcies represent significant life changes; fully embracing them is your best option for moving forward positively. Even before we look at specific strategies, one thing to remember is that successfully filing for bankruptcy with an experienced attorney’s advice will undoubtedly improve your overall situation. Your future potential improves dramatically if you develop a strategic bankruptcy plan and stick to solid financial decisions.
Strategy 1 – Enlist Professional Help: There is nothing to be ashamed of when you need a little extra help. Counseling and therapy can be instrumental in managing the emotional toll of bankruptcy. Mental health professionals have dealt with many types of challenging situations and can provide a safe space to express your concerns without judgment. Some therapists offer sliding scale fees, making professional help more accessible during financially challenging times.
Strategy 2 – Build a Support Network: For those who haven’t had success with professionals or don’t find the process appealing, leaning on friends and family can provide emotional support when needed. It’s important to communicate your needs to your loved ones, letting them know how they can help and specifically how financial issues are causing you to feel.
Strategy 3 – Practice Self-Care and Stress Management: Physical activity and an improved diet can immediately show improvements in mood and relieve stress. When you establish a daily routine, it can provide a sense of control and normalcy. As much as possible, engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy to your life, ideally ones that don’t exacerbate your financial situation. It may sound basic, but getting a good night’s rest every night is also one of the most essential things you can do to get your mind in the right mental state.
Strategy 4 – Take Advantage of Credit Counseling Services: When you learn sound financial practices from the experts, it instills a sense of confidence. It is empowering to learn about tangible ways that you can improve your current situation, as well as stay out of trouble in the future. Credit counseling services are required during the bankruptcy process, but you can also take advantage of them prior to filing.
Trust an Expert
The best way to boost your confidence during a difficult time is to have a professional in your corner. When hiring an experienced bankruptcy attorney, you don’t have to worry about missing deadlines, filling out a form incorrectly, or even facing creditors. At the law offices of Richard V. Ellis, we have spent decades helping people just like you to face bankruptcy with confidence. Call today and begin your journey towards a financial fresh start.