Breaking down the stigma: Getting help with debt

Debt does not discriminate. Financial challenges can affect anyone, often as a result of circumstances that are difficult or impossible to control, such as inflation, rising living costs, unexpected job loss, illness, or major life changes.

Financial pressure continues to affect households across the country. According to Vividata’s Study of the Canadian Consumer Winter 2026, 49 percent of Canadians carrying debt report living paycheque to paycheque.  

Even though financial stress is becoming increasingly common, many people still hesitate to talk about debt or seek help because of the stigma surrounding financial hardship and insolvency. Feelings of embarrassment or shame can cause individuals to suffer in silence, often carrying the weight of stress alone.

Unfortunately, avoiding the situation rarely makes it easier. Financial stress can affect more than your bank account — it can disrupt sleep, strain relationships, impact mental well-being, and make it harder to see a path forward.

Seeking help is one of the most important first steps you can take. Asking for support isn’t a sign of failure but demonstrates courage. It takes strength to reach out, speak with a professional, and explore your options to regain control of your financial future.

How to Break the Stigma

1. Acknowledge your situation: Recognizing that you’re experiencing financial challenges can be difficult, but it’s also the first step toward finding a solution and moving forward with clarity.
2. Open up about your finances: Talk with your spouse, family, or someone you trust. Honest conversations can help ease the emotional burden and remind you that you’re not alone.
3. Separate your self-worth from your finances: Financial difficulties do not define your character, your success, or your value as a person. Challenging seasons happen, and seeking support is part of moving through them.
4. Seek professional guidance: Speaking with a qualified professional can help you better understand your financial situation, explore available options, and create a practical path forward.

The sooner you address your debt and seek support, the sooner you can begin reducing stress, rebuilding confidence, and taking meaningful steps toward a more stable financial future.