Keep spending in check this Christmas
MEDIA RELEASE
December 22, 2008
With pamphlets for festive sales filling letterboxes around the country, along with their enticing credit deals, the Mental Health Foundation is urging consumers and families not to bite off more than they can chew this Christmas.
"The short term excitement of a major purchase can be quickly cancelled out by the stress of repayments once the interest-free period expires and the statements start coming in," says Judi Clements, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation.
Levels of stress and anxiety already run high in December, when family incomes are often stretched too thin. But with the current economic climate, the Foundation is concerned that many more families could be affected by the negative fallout of bad debt.
"Christmas is a time of year when many families can feel pressure to spend from a variety of sources, but if that spending is pushing you into debt then it's best to look carefully at the offer on the table and make sure the repayments are affordable in the long term," Judi Clements says.
If the commercial demands of the festive season are making you feel out of control, the Foundation advises taking time out to reflect on your current situation and plan for a positive future.
"Unrealistic expectations will work to drive up your stress levels. One of the best ways to avoid stress and anxiety around financial issues is to plan for the future, which will help you take control of your life," Judi Clements says.
"In terms of gifts that cost nothing, you should never underestimate the value of your time. Offering to cook dinner for family, babysit for a friend, or taking those few extra days off over Christmas to spend time with the kids are all great ideas that mean a lot."
If you are feeling overwhelmed this Christmas, don't keep it to yourself. Talk to friends, family, or someone you trust, or make use of helplines such as Lifeline, Youthline or the Depression Support Line:
• Depression Support Line - 0800 111 757
• Lifeline - 0800 543 354
• Youthline - 0800 376 633
• Out Of The Blue
For further inquiries
Paula Taylor
Communications and Marketing Manager
Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
09 300 7025 or 021 300 594
