10 Signs Someone Is Struggling Financially You Should Recognise

Introduction

Many people feel overwhelmed by financial pressures that affect their daily lives. This article highlights the subtle yet telling indicators of financial struggles, from changes in spending habits to emotional stress and the inability to meet basic needs. As the economic landscape shifts, how can you and your loved ones spot these signs and provide the support that truly matters? Recognizing these signs can empower you to provide the support that truly makes a difference.

Notice Changes in Spending Habits

Noticing changes in spending habits can be a crucial first step in understanding your [financial health](https://nectar.co.nz/top-financial-wellness-tips). This shift can manifest in two ways: overspending on non-essentials or a sudden move towards frugality. For example, if a usually sociable friend who enjoys dining out starts turning down invitations or opting for cheaper meals, these could be signs someone is struggling financially. Conversely, signs someone is struggling financially could be observed in a person who increasingly relies on credit cards for everyday expenses, suggesting they may be living beyond their means and hinting at deeper monetary issues.

Did you know that 55% of New Zealanders are facing economic challenges right now? Among those aged 18-35, a staggering 76% reported experiencing economic stress in the past year. These pressures can lead to impulsive spending, but remember, every step counts in managing your finances! In fact, 16% of individuals admit to making unnecessary purchases despite their financial struggles. Observing these behavioral changes can serve as an early warning system, highlighting the signs someone is struggling financially and may need assistance or support. Understanding these patterns is essential, as they not only reflect a person’s economic health but also impact their overall well-being. Recognizing these patterns can empower you to seek the support you need for a healthier financial future.

Each slice of the pie represents a different group affected by economic challenges. The larger the slice, the more people are experiencing that issue. This helps you see how widespread these financial struggles are among different age groups.

Recognize Signs of Increased Stress and Anxiety

Financial difficulties can weigh heavily on your mind, leading to stress and anxiety that can feel overwhelming. People dealing with these challenges might feel irritable, struggle to concentrate, or have trouble sleeping. For instance, someone who usually manages stress well may find themselves feeling anxious or withdrawing from social situations due to financial worries. Noticing the signs someone is struggling financially can really help friends and family offer support, encouraging open conversations about money challenges that can lighten the emotional load.

Nectar Money’s Debt Consolidation Loan can be a valuable solution for those struggling with multiple debts. By merging different debts into a single payment, you can streamline your obligations, making it easier to handle stress and regain control over your finances. With this financing option, you could enjoy a lower interest rate compared to your current debts, which means more savings for you! Plus, with flexible repayment terms, you can align your loan payments with your income schedule, further easing the financial strain. You can borrow up to $30,000 without worrying about early repayment fees, giving you the flexibility you need!

Taking steps towards financial stability can lead to a brighter, more secure future.

This flowchart guides you through recognizing signs of financial stress and the steps you can take to alleviate it. Start by identifying the signs, then consider the debt consolidation loan as a solution to regain control over your finances.

Identify Inability to Meet Basic Needs

Many families are facing tough times, struggling to meet their basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare. The [[signs someone is struggling financially](https://cpag.org.nz/media-releases/families-below-the-income-floor-face-growing-crisis-new-research)](https://cpag.org.nz/media-releases/families-below-the-income-floor-face-growing-crisis-new-research) include:

  1. Frequent mentions of skipping meals
  2. Delaying rent payments
  3. Avoiding necessary medical care due to costs

For instance, people who once enjoyed regular grocery shopping may find themselves relying on food banks or seeking help with meals. Alarmingly, reports indicate that 27 percent of children in New Zealand live in food-insecure households, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The rise in homelessness in Auckland, now affecting 940 individuals, underscores the critical need for community support and intervention.

By identifying the signs someone is struggling financially, you can help connect families with prompt support and resources that can make a real difference. Furthermore, personal credit from Nectar Money can offer adaptable monetary solutions for renters facing relocation expenses, bonds, and necessary home costs, assisting them in restoring stability. These loans can help consolidate multiple debts or manage unexpected expenses, making it easier for individuals to navigate their economic challenges.

As Dr. Harry Yu Shi from the Child Poverty Action Group states, ‘The evidence is clear: even working full time or combining wages with benefits is no longer enough to enable families to break free of the constraints of poverty.’ Recognising the signs someone is struggling financially is the first step toward connecting families with the support they need to regain stability and hope.

This mindmap starts with the main issue of families struggling to meet basic needs. Each branch shows different aspects of this issue, like signs of struggle, important statistics, and potential solutions. Follow the branches to see how these elements connect and what can be done to help.

Encourage Open Communication About Finances

Many people hesitate to discuss their financial struggles due to fear of judgement, but open dialogue can lighten that burden. Friends and family should strive to create a safe environment for discussions, allowing individuals to voice their concerns freely.

For instance, starting conversations about budgeting or sharing personal experiences with monetary challenges can help normalise these discussions. This openness can transform financial stress into collaborative solutions, making it easier for anyone noticing signs someone is struggling financially to ask for help.

By regularly discussing finances, you can build trust and understanding within your family, paving the way for better money management and readiness for surprises.

This mindmap illustrates how different aspects of discussing finances are interconnected. Start at the center with the main idea, then explore each branch to see how they contribute to fostering open dialogue and support.

Suggest Seeking Professional Financial Advice

Many individuals experience signs someone is struggling financially when they find themselves overwhelmed by debt and unsure of how to proceed. Seeking professional financial advice can significantly alter your trajectory. Financial advisors provide tailored strategies that can help you manage debt, create budgets, and plan for future expenses.

For instance, if you’re struggling with rising credit card debt, consultations can detail [[efficient repayment strategies and explore consolidation options](https://wiseradvisor.com/blog/financial-advisor-guide/4-ways-financial-advisors-can-help-with-debt-management)](https://wiseradvisor.com/blog/financial-advisor-guide/4-ways-financial-advisors-can-help-with-debt-management) like [[Nectar Money’s Debt Consolidation Loan](https://nectar.co.nz/debt-consolidation-guide-for-new-zealand)](https://nectar.co.nz/debt-consolidation-guide-for-new-zealand). This loan makes it easier to manage payments by letting you combine multiple loans into one simple payment that fits your income schedule and may lower your interest rates.

When you seek expert help, you can feel empowered to take control of your financial situation and identify the signs someone is struggling financially, allowing you to work towards achieving stability. As monetary specialists say, ‘A money advisor can assist you in creating a customised repayment plan that prioritises high-interest debt after taking into account your income, expenses, and debt obligations.’

With Nectar Money’s adaptable solutions, including the choice to borrow up to $30,000 without early repayment fees, you can better handle your monetary challenges. With the right support, you can navigate your financial challenges and work towards a brighter future.

This flowchart guides you through the process of seeking financial help. Start by recognizing your financial struggles, then move on to seeking advice. Each step shows you the strategies available to manage your debt and plan for the future.

Advocate for Creating a Budget Plan

Many people show signs someone is struggling financially, as they feel overwhelmed by their financial responsibilities. Developing a budget plan is a powerful way to reduce that economic stress. A well-structured budget helps you monitor your income and expenses, making it easier to spot areas where you can save.

For instance, if you’re observing signs someone is struggling financially, try:

  1. Itemising all your monthly costs
  2. Categorising them into necessary needs and optional desires

This exercise often reveals spending habits that can be adjusted, helping you save more and breathe easier. Plus, budgeting fosters financial awareness, empowering you to make informed choices about your resources.

In New Zealand, 36% of adults are turning to online programmes to manage their finances, recognising budgeting as a vital step toward achieving economic stability. By adopting a proactive approach to budgeting, you’re not just managing your finances; you’re paving the way for a brighter financial future.

Follow the arrows to see how to create a budget. Start with itemizing your costs, then categorize them. Each step helps you understand your finances better and find ways to save.

Provide Emotional Support and Understanding

Many individuals face overwhelming economic challenges, and emotional support can make a significant difference. Friends and family should approach these situations with understanding and without judgement, offering a compassionate ear and encouragement. Starting discussions by asking how someone is handling their monetary situation can help identify signs someone is struggling financially and creates a safe environment for them to share their difficulties. This simple act of reassurance and empathy can help reduce feelings of isolation and shame. It empowers individuals to seek the assistance they need.

Community assistance programmes, like monetary counselling services and peer assistance groups, can offer extra resources for individuals in distress. These programmes not only provide practical monetary advice but also nurture a sense of belonging and understanding among participants. Research shows that social support networks are essential in alleviating economic stress; individuals with strong support systems report lower levels of anxiety and enhanced mental well-being. With the right steps, you can find the support you need.

Experts agree that when we affirm emotions and encourage open conversations about money, it can lead to better recovery outcomes. Rachel Clements, Director of Psychological Services, encourages, ‘You can seek professional help, like budgeting advice or support for your wellbeing. It addresses both the practical and emotional sides of your stress.’ By reassuring individuals that seeking help is a sign of strength, we can help dismantle the stigma surrounding the signs someone is struggling financially. Regular check-ins and emotional support can further boost resilience, making it easier for those impacted to navigate their economic challenges and work towards recovery. By fostering open conversations and offering support, we can help individuals reclaim their financial health and confidence.

This mindmap illustrates how emotional support and understanding can help individuals facing economic difficulties. Each branch represents a key area of focus, showing how they connect to the central theme of providing support and fostering resilience.

Identify Signs of Financial Struggles in Seniors

Seniors often face unique monetary challenges, so it’s important to be aware of the signs that indicate they might need a little extra help. Some signs someone is struggling financially include:

  1. Missed payments
  2. Letting home maintenance slide
  3. Needing more help from others

For instance, an older neighbour who once cared for their garden may stop these tasks, which can create additional challenges for them. Moreover, 16% of adults aged 50 and older reported difficulties affording health insurance, prescription medications, or healthcare services, which can create additional challenges for them.

Additionally, 53% of older adults experienced stress related to their personal finances in the past year, with many cutting back on essential expenses. This includes:

  1. 28% who reduced grocery spending
  2. 27% who cut back on home maintenance

Such cutbacks can lead to further deterioration of their living conditions, so it’s helpful for family members or friends to keep an eye out for these signs. Recognising these signs can inspire timely support and solutions, whether through monetary assistance or connecting seniors with local resources designed to help them manage their economic difficulties.

One effective solution for seniors encountering monetary difficulties is Nectar Money’s Debt Consolidation Loan, which enables them to borrow up to $30,000 with no early repayment penalties. This financial assistance can simplify their debt management by consolidating multiple debts into one payment, making it easier to budget and manage expenses. By aligning loan repayments with their income schedule, seniors can lessen monetary stress and regain control over their finances. Family members can play a crucial role by regularly checking in on their elderly relatives’ money management to offer necessary assistance and encouragement.

This mindmap shows the signs that seniors may be facing financial difficulties. Each branch represents a different aspect, from general signs to specific statistics and potential solutions. Follow the branches to understand how these signs connect and what can be done to help.

Offer Practical Assistance with Daily Expenses

Many people are feeling the weight of financial stress, and practical support can make a world of difference. Providing assistance with daily costs can significantly ease economic burdens for those in need. This might mean:

  • Helping with grocery shopping
  • Covering utility bills
  • Offering transportation for essential errands

For example, if a friend is struggling to pay their electricity bill, covering it for a month can bring them much-needed relief. These gestures not only provide financial help but also demonstrate care. They highlight how important community is in overcoming money challenges. Did you know that many New Zealanders-about 55%-are displaying signs someone is struggling financially right now? Experts like Dr. Jo Gamble point out that financial stress can affect overall life and relationships, adding to the emotional burden many face. Informal monetary assistance among friends and family is common, with many willing to help loved ones during tough times. To create a supportive environment, consider starting open conversations about money management and available resources. Additionally, organisations like Nectar Money are dedicated to improving financial knowledge and offering flexible credit solutions, such as personal and vehicle financing, which can provide essential support during challenging times. By getting involved and using the resources available, you can help your friends regain stability and confidence in their finances.

This mindmap shows how you can help others with their daily financial challenges. Start at the center with the main idea, then follow the branches to see different ways you can offer support, like helping with groceries or bills. Each branch represents a specific area of assistance, making it easy to understand how you can make a difference.

Consider Nectar Money for Personal Loan Solutions

During tough financial times, many individuals show signs someone is struggling financially while trying to manage their expenses. Personal funding options from Nectar Money can provide a practical way to regain control. Nectar Money provides credit amounts ranging from $2,000 to $50,000. With competitive interest rates between 11.95% and 29.95% annually, this option is designed to meet various financial needs.

The application process is streamlined, allowing borrowers to receive customised financing quotes in just seven minutes. This quick turnaround alleviates the stress often associated with traditional lending. Moreover, Nectar Money does not impose early repayment penalties, which enhances the flexibility of their loans.

For a $240 establishment fee and a $1.75 admin fee per repayment, individuals can secure the financial support necessary to navigate their challenges effectively. This approach reinforces the growing preference for online lending platforms, as consumers increasingly seek quick and accessible solutions. Taking the first step with Nectar Money can lead you toward a more secure financial future.

This flowchart guides you through the steps to secure a personal loan with Nectar Money. Each box represents a stage in the process, from applying for the loan to receiving the funds. Follow the arrows to see how each step leads to the next!

Conclusion

Recognising the signs of financial struggle can be challenging, but it’s essential for creating a supportive environment. When you notice changes in spending habits, increased stress, or difficulty meeting basic needs, it’s a sign that someone may need your help. Open communication about financial challenges not only alleviates feelings of isolation but also encourages individuals to seek help without fear of judgement. You can make a difference by reaching out!

Throughout the article, we’ve shared key insights, including:

  1. The importance of offering emotional support
  2. Suggesting professional financial advice
  3. Advocating for budget planning

Each of these elements plays a vital role in helping individuals navigate their financial difficulties. By being proactive and observant, anyone can contribute to creating a community that prioritises financial well-being and understanding.

Together, we can tackle financial struggles and make a real difference. Encouraging open discussions, providing practical assistance, and utilising resources like Nectar Money can significantly impact those facing economic challenges. With empathy and support, you can help others reclaim their financial health and build a more secure future. Taking action today can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of changes in spending habits that indicate someone may be struggling financially?

Signs include overspending on non-essentials, avoiding social invitations, opting for cheaper meals, and relying on credit cards for everyday expenses. These behaviours can suggest that a person is living beyond their means or facing financial difficulties.

How prevalent are financial challenges in New Zealand?

Currently, 55% of New Zealanders are facing economic challenges, with 76% of individuals aged 18-35 reporting economic stress in the past year.

What impact can financial difficulties have on a person’s mental health?

Financial difficulties can lead to increased stress and anxiety, causing irritability, concentration issues, and trouble sleeping. Individuals may also withdraw from social situations due to financial worries.

What solutions are available for managing multiple debts?

Nectar Money’s Debt Consolidation Loan can help by merging different debts into a single payment, potentially offering a lower interest rate and flexible repayment terms to ease financial strain.

What are the indicators of an inability to meet basic needs?

Indicators include skipping meals, delaying rent payments, and avoiding necessary medical care due to costs. These signs reflect a struggle to meet essential needs like food, housing, and healthcare.

What alarming statistics highlight the urgency of financial struggles in New Zealand?

Reports indicate that 27% of children in New Zealand live in food-insecure households, and there has been a rise in homelessness in Auckland, affecting 940 individuals.

How can recognising signs of financial struggle help those in need?

Identifying these signs allows friends and family to offer support and connect individuals with resources that can make a real difference in regaining financial stability.

What financial solutions does Nectar Money offer for those facing housing-related expenses?

Nectar Money provides personal credit options that assist with relocation expenses, bonds, and necessary home costs, helping individuals manage their economic challenges more effectively.

List of Sources

  1. Notice Changes in Spending Habits
    • Westpac survey shows New Zealanders are starting the year with financial stress (https://rnz.co.nz/news/business/584481/westpac-survey-shows-new-zealanders-are-starting-the-year-with-financial-stress)
    • Money And Financial Stress Statistics | Bankrate (https://bankrate.com/banking/money-and-financial-stress-statistics)
    • New research reveals more than half of New Zealanders are struggling with money (https://retirement.govt.nz/news/latest-news/new-research-reveals-more-than-half-of-new-zealanders-are-struggling-with-money)
    • New data reveals how millions of Aussies are self-sabotaging their finances (https://9news.com.au/finance/australia-finance-money-spending-habits/82d42035-e3b3-4569-8e39-f3776d9ef34f)
  2. Recognize Signs of Increased Stress and Anxiety
    • Financial anxiety: The alarming side effect of inflation (https://bbc.com/worklife/article/20231005-financial-anxiety-the-alarming-side-effect-of-inflation)
    • Stress, anxiety and hopelessness over personal finances (https://mentalhealth.org.uk/about-us/news/stress-anxiety-and-hopelessness-over-personal-finances)
    • Kiwis Face Rising Financial and Mental Strain (https://aia.co.nz/en/onelife/plan-well/financial-stress-is-taking-a-toll-on-new-zealanders-mental-health.html)
  3. Identify Inability to Meet Basic Needs
    • Cost-of-living squeeze hits pensioners, with some using foodbanks to survive (https://rnz.co.nz/news/community/592484/cost-of-living-squeeze-hits-pensioners-with-some-using-foodbanks-to-survive)
    • Beneficiaries, pensioners don’t have enough money for basics – report (https://rnz.co.nz/news/business/577525/beneficiaries-pensioners-don-t-have-enough-money-for-basics-report)
    • ‘It’s just not enough’: Salvation Army warns families are starving (https://rnz.co.nz/news/national/586555/it-s-just-not-enough-salvation-army-warns-families-are-starving)
    • Beneficiaries, pensioners don’t have enough money for basics – report (https://nzherald.co.nz/business/personal-finance/beneficiaries-pensioners-dont-have-enough-money-for-basics-report/2EUVZON4ARA6DIULL25DDRDHNQ)
    • Families below the Income Floor face growing crisis – new research — Child Poverty Action Group (https://cpag.org.nz/media-releases/families-below-the-income-floor-face-growing-crisis-new-research)
  4. Encourage Open Communication About Finances
    • The Importance of Talking About Money: How Open Financial Conversations Build Stronger Financial Futures (https://oxygenfinancial.com/blog/talking-about-money-why-financial-conversations-matter)
    • Talking About Money: The Power of Open Conversations – Prosperity Connection (https://prosperityconnection.org/blog/talking-about-money-the-power-of-open-conversations)
    • Why it’s more important than ever to talk about money – Accounting Insight News (https://accountex.co.uk/insight/2023/08/18/why-its-more-important-than-ever-to-talk-about-money)
  5. Suggest Seeking Professional Financial Advice
    • 4 Ways Financial Advisors Can Help with Debt Management – WiserAdvisor.com (https://wiseradvisor.com/blog/financial-advisor-guide/4-ways-financial-advisors-can-help-with-debt-management)
    • Here’s why everyone needs access to good financial advice (https://weforum.org/stories/2024/07/why-everyone-needs-access-to-financial-advice)
    • How Financial Advisors Can Help With Debt (https://investopedia.com/articles/professionals/110315/how-financial-advisors-can-help-debt.asp)
    • Professional financial advice linked to higher financial confidence and readiness, study finds (https://investmentnews.com/practice-management/professional-financial-advice-linked-to-higher-financial-confidence-and-readiness-study-finds/264946)
    • 4 Reasons a Financial Advisor Can Help You Get Out of Debt Faster Than You Can on Your Own (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/4-reasons-financial-advisor-help-203139112.html)
  6. Advocate for Creating a Budget Plan
    • How to build a money plan that will weather every economic storm (https://1news.co.nz/2025/08/25/how-to-build-a-money-plan-that-will-weather-every-economic-storm)
    • Start saving, budget and think long term: how to build financial resilience (https://theguardian.com/money/2025/jan/22/start-saving-budget-financial-resilience-interest-rate-rises)
    • Get your finances sorted in 2026: Set a budget (https://rnz.co.nz/news/business/583199/get-your-finances-sorted-in-2026-set-a-budget)
    • 20+ Spending, Budgeting & Money Management Statistics in 2024 – DreamMaker (https://dreammaker.co.uk/blog/money-management-statistics)
    • This 5-Step Budgeting Plan Can Protect You From a Recession (https://finance.yahoo.com/news/5-step-budgeting-plan-protect-122600374.html)
  7. Provide Emotional Support and Understanding
    • Financial distress and mental health: The data paints a stark picture (https://cmha.org.au/financial-distress-and-mental-health-the-data-paints-a-stark-picture)
    • How to support someone experiencing financial pressures (https://ruok.org.au/chit-chat-lh-financial-pressures)
    • Financial stress and mental health statistics: How connected is our money stress and our mental health really? (https://yourmoneyline.com/blog/financial-stress-and-mental-health-statisitcs)
  8. Identify Signs of Financial Struggles in Seniors
    • Making Ends Meet: Financial Strain and Well-Being Among Older Adults (https://ihpi.umich.edu/national-poll-healthy-aging/national-findings/making-ends-meet-financial-strain-and-well-being)
    • Warning signs can predict seniors’ diminished ability to manage money (https://uab.edu/news/news-you-can-use/warning-signs-can-predict-seniors-diminished-ability-to-manage-money)
  9. Offer Practical Assistance with Daily Expenses
    • Number of disabled people in financial hardship growing, data shows (https://rnz.co.nz/news/business/574757/number-of-disabled-people-in-financial-hardship-growing-data-shows)
    • ‘Emergency package’ could help low income families amid financial crisis, economist says (https://rnz.co.nz/news/political/589757/emergency-package-could-help-low-income-families-amid-financial-crisis-economist-says)
    • New research reveals more than half of New Zealanders are struggling with money (https://retirement.govt.nz/news/latest-news/new-research-reveals-more-than-half-of-new-zealanders-are-struggling-with-money)
    • More people ‘drowning in debt’ as cost of living crisis bites (https://nzherald.co.nz/nz/cost-of-living-crisis-people-drowning-in-debt-more-seek-financial-mentors/N72SCFHUCVD6BFMR6XCGMNROBA)
    • Data on the financial capabilities of disabled New Zealanders | Whaikaha – Ministry of Disabled People (https://whaikaha.govt.nz/news/news/data-on-the-financial-capabilities-of-disabled-new-zealanders)
  10. Consider Nectar Money for Personal Loan Solutions
  • 7 Urgent Personal Loan Options for Quick Financial Relief – Nectar Money (https://nectar.co.nz/7-urgent-personal-loan-options-for-quick-financial-relief)
  • 10 Quick Unsecured Loans for Fast Financial Relief – Nectar Money (https://nectar.co.nz/10-quick-unsecured-loans-for-fast-financial-relief)
  • Apply for Hardship Loans: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Success – Nectar Money (https://nectar.co.nz/apply-for-hardship-loans-your-step-by-step-guide-to-success)
  • Comparing Loan Finance: Traditional Lenders vs. Nectar Money – Nectar Money (https://nectar.co.nz/comparing-loan-finance-traditional-lenders-vs-nectar-money)
  • 10 Best Personal Loans for Quick Funding in 2026 – Nectar Money (https://nectar.co.nz/10-best-personal-loans-for-quick-funding-in-2026)

* A Nectar Money loan requires responsible borrowing checks and must meet standard borrowing criteria. Interest rates 9.95% - 29.95% p.a. fixed. $240 establishment fee and $1.75 admin fee per repayment apply. Please see our privacy policy and rates and terms or visit our FAQs for the most up to date information. This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Nectar Money, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.