Holistic Well-Being and Financial Strain: A Reflection from the Public, Academic, and Clinical Sectors

Abstract

Post-pandemic economic changes have intensified financial strain and structural inequalities, which are a critical factor that erodes the holistic well-being of populations. This problem directly affects vulnerable groups, including students, female-headed households, and workers, who have precarious living conditions in terms of their physical, emotional, and social health. The main objective of this article is to examine the role of financial strain as a determining factor of holistic well-being for the development of systemic interventions across the public, academic, and clinical sectors. Consequently, a narrative review of current literature demonstrates the association between economic difficulties and mental disorders, among which anxiety, depression, and suicidal behavior stand out. In this context, financial education has become a preventive tool, facilitating conscious decision-making and emotional regulation, while improving individual resilience in the face of economic stress. In conclusion, it is necessary to strengthen financial education from a public health approach to prevent mental illness and promote equitable, resilient societies capable of facing contemporary economic challenge.