It seems that every month and year that rolls by produces yet another story or survey that highlights how Canadians are falling further and further into debt.

While I’ve already written about how to best manage your finances when you’re in debt—budgeting, consolidating, negotiating, and rebuilding—there’s another part of the debt story that needs just as much attention, the toll it can take on your mental health.

Debt isn’t just a financial problem, it’s an emotional one too. The pressure of owing money, juggling bills or dodging collection calls can lead to anxiety, depression, sleepless nights and even physical health issues. But even in the thick of it, it is possible to find ways to protect your mental wellbeing and regain a sense of control over your life. Here are some meaningful, practical ways to manage your emotional health while navigating the stress of debt.

1. Talk about it, even if it’s hard—Debt often carries a heavy stigma and that shame can lead people to keep it secret, even from those closest to them. But silence tends to make things worse. Talking to a friend, family member or therapist can reduce the emotional........

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