Poverty and Self-Care: What if I Can't Afford Self-Care?

The concept of self-care has been around for a while. Since the pandemic started, it’s become an even more relevant and important practice. It seems everywhere you turn someone is talking about self-care and what you can do. But your ability to practice self-care is often tied to your finances.

Your economic status has an incredible impact on what self-care looks like. If you live in a position of stability, buying yourself a special treat, taking time off work when you need a break, seeing a therapist or mental health professional when you need help, and planning a few weekend get-aways are normal boxes on your self-care checklist. But if you live in a position of poverty or limited financial resources, none of those things are possible. Not because you don’t need or want them. Because you can’t afford it.