Most residents find money matters stressful

Dubai/Abu Dhabi/Fujairah: Headaches, backaches, anxiety and anger - these are only some of the tell-tale signs of stress that are commonly experienced by all.

Stress may be triggered by a number of reasons, such as family problems, hectic schedules and work place tension. However, the majority of residents attributed their stress to financial woes.

There are a variety of methods to control the levels of stress. These include exercise, healthy diet, stress management, relaxation techniques, adequate rest and relaxing hobbies.

In a recent poll conducted by Gulf News, 72 per cent of the respondents said monetary woes were stressing them out, 10 per cent said they were not affected by it, while 18 per cent of the respondents shot back: Money woes what?

City Talk took to the streets and asked the residents if monetary issues were stressing them out and how did they manage to cope with stress.

Abby Abendan, cosmetic consultant from the Philippines, 37, said: "I have money issues, but they do not stress me at all because I make sure that I budget carefully. Everything is getting expensive and it would be better if I had a higher salary to cope with it all. That is why I have to put all my energy into budgeting."

Khalid Ali Mohammad Ali, Egyptian mechanical engineer, 27, said: "It is clear nowadays that money has become all the more important in life. If I have monetary issues, I try to put things in perspective and not let them stress me out. I will find legitimate ways to get the money I need through a friend, but will never seek illegitimate means to get money, no matter what. It is normal to have money issues, but what is important is to always look at the bigger picture and not let it overwhelm you. We have to thank God for all the other blessings like our health and not act in an ignorant manner."

Dennis Magkasi, electrical engineer from the Philippines, 39, said: "It stresses me out a lot. There is a rising inflation that is greater than the salaries provided by private companies. I calm myself down by spending quality time with my family and four children and there is always something going on to keep my mind off stressful matters."

Ayman Ebrahim, Lebanese salesman, 36, said: "Money, traffic and the economy are all stressful. Although the stress is not limited to monetary issues, it is my biggest woe. Everything else is stressing me out as well. The rent is getting more expensive and I do not know where it's heading. Sometimes the only way I can calm myself down is by smiling because there's nothing else I can do."

Dominic Arevalo, 33, Filipino customer service staff member, said: "Yes money issues are stressing out most expatriates. House rent is the biggest problem. Rents have more than doubled recently and it is becoming increasingly difficult to save any money.

I used to spend Dh700 in order to send back home 10,000 Pesos. Now this has gone up to Dh800. Overall, costs are skyrocketing. But I think it is not just happening in this part of the world but all over. So there is no escape."

Soha Marouf, Palestinian homemaker, 45, said: "Food prices and rent affect the family budget the most. They burn a hole on one's pockets. Everything costs more these days and it is hard for families to survive."

Praveen Subramanian, 36, Indian sales executive, said: "Financial stress is ever growing. I think it has a connection with the suicide cases and marital discords that we hear of. People are seeking ways to overcome this problem by renting out a room of their apartment or by reducing the amount spent on food or entertainment, but I think if the rent does not come down, life will become more and more miserable."

Malek Basit Ali, Indian travel sales officer, 30, said: "Most people - at some point in time - will have monetary issues and I'm no different. But I don't believe it is something worth being stressed out for, because stress will only take you to the hospital and not the bank. If I go through such a phase, I will be patient, wait for the good times and look at the positives. There are more important things to worry about and be thankful for, such as good health."