First World Struggle: The Stress of Balancing Bills, Necessities, and Mental Health in the Land of Opportunities.

Living in the United States, often considered the Land of Opportunity, can come with a heavy burden for many individuals and families. While the country boasts economic prosperity and advancement, a stark reality persists: the stress of making ends meet, accessing necessities, affording healthcare, rent, childcare, and the strain it places on mental health. This article delves into the challenges faced by Americans, supported by studies from prestigious institutions like Harvard, Yale, and NYU.

The Financial Tightrope Harvard's study, "The State of Working America," reveals a disturbing trend: despite economic growth, real wages for most Americans have remained relatively stagnant for decades. The median income, often touted as a marker of financial stability, struggles to keep pace with the rising cost of living.

According to a report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition, the U.S. is in the midst of an affordable housing crisis. On average, minimum-wage workers would need to work 97 hours per week to afford a two-bedroom rental home at fair market rent. If one week has 168 hrs, one would have to work 97 hours per week instead of 40 hours per week to at least afford those tow-bedrooms rental home. If an individual sleeps 8 hours a day as suggested by by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that would leave the the individual with only 15 hours left after working 97 hours a week, and sleeping for 56 hours a week. 15 is certainly not enough. 

1 week	= 168 hours
Working	97 hours?
Sleep	8hrs/ day=? 56 hours
97 wrk/hrs - 112 hrs left	= 15 hours left in a week

 This disparity leads to housing insecurity and the constant stress of eviction looming over many households. Childcare, a necessity and a strain. Childcare in the United States is notoriously expensive. A study by NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human  Development found that in 28 states, the average cost of center-based infant care exceeds 20% of the state median income for a single parent. For families with multiple children, this expense can be astronomical, forcing tough choices between work and family life.

Healthcare Worries

Yale's research shows that even with insurance, many Americans are burdened with medical debt. The high cost of healthcare is a significant source of stress, with individuals often forgoing necessary treatment or medications due to financial constraints.

The Mental Toll The stress of juggling bills, housing, childcare, and healthcare can lead to anxiety and other mental health conditions. A study by the American Psychological Association reveals that financial stress is a leading cause of anxiety in the U.S. The constant worry about making ends meet can take a severe toll on mental well-being.

Living in the United States comes with its unique set of challenges, including the stress of managing finances and accessing basic necessities. Despite economic growth, the median income often falls short, leaving many Americans struggling to make ends meet. The burden of unaffordable housing, childcare costs, and healthcare expenses adds to the daily stressors. These financial pressures can take a toll on mental health, contributing to anxiety and other conditions. While the American dream persists, it is essential to acknowledge and address the very real challenges that many face in pursuit of a better life.