The Power of Talking Money: Reducing Financial Anxiety Thru Connection
Money is frequently enough the “elephant in the room” – a powerful force shaping our lives,yet a topic we often avoid discussing. This silence leaves us wondering how others manage, and whether our own financial worries are unique. But avoiding the conversation actually increases anxiety, as uncertainty thrives in the absence of information and shared experience.
We learn to budget, save, and even splurge by observing and interacting with others. Without open dialog, our financial strategies remain guesswork, lacking the benefit of feedback and shared wisdom.
Fortunately, emerging research confirms what many intuitively suspect: talking about money is good for us. A recent study by Matt Meister at the University of San Francisco and colleagues (2025) found that openly discussing personal finances significantly lowers financial anxiety. This benefit stems from a key psychological effect – increased perceived financial control. Sharing experiences helps us organize our thoughts, feel more capable, and ultimately, reduce distress. Focusing on controllable aspects like budgeting and spending, rather than unpredictable expenses, is especially effective.
the research even shows benefits from anonymous online discussions. In a study of over 300 university students, those who regularly posted about thier financial health in moderated online forums experienced greater reductions in anxiety than those discussing their physical health. This effect was directly linked to a stronger sense of control. Furthermore, frequency matters: those who posted more often (at least 12 times) saw the biggest improvements.
So, how can we start these important conversations?
start small: Don’t feel pressured to reveal everything at once.
Normalize the topic: Ask friends and family about their budgeting strategies or what they consider a worthwhile indulgence.
Focus on control: Discuss what you and others can influence, fostering a sense of empowerment. Explore online communities: Online forums and chats offer a safe space to connect, share, and reduce anxiety.Talking about money isn’t about revealing personal details; it’s about building connection, gaining knowledge, and reclaiming control over our financial well-being.
