This everyday activity may be draining your wallet, research reveals
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In the heart of Australia, a troubling trend is unfolding amidst a culture built on camaraderie and community spirit.
With the rising cost of living, Australians are increasingly sacrificing the cherished traditions that once defined their way of life.
Recent studies revealed that the tradition of hosting friends and family, a hallmark of Aussie hospitality, has become financially out of reach for many.
The Salvation Army's research paints a picture of Australians' financial pressures. Over a 12-month period, the organisation surveyed 1,500 individuals who sought assistance from it.
The findings revealed a distressing correlation between financial strain and mental health.
A significant 67 per cent of respondents acknowledged the detrimental impact their financial situation had on their mental health, with a worrying 71 per cent reporting frequent loss of sleep due to financial concerns.
A notable 60 per cent of those surveyed have curtailed spending time with loved ones, and four in ten have stopped inviting guests entirely to save on energy costs.
This withdrawal from social interaction has led to feelings of isolation, with 62 per cent of respondents experiencing loneliness.
The mental toll is further compounded by the fact that nearly half of the participants, 46 per cent, feel they cannot afford counselling services for themselves, and 29 per cent are unable to provide it for their children.
Major Brendan Nottle of The Salvation Army describes these findings as 'heartbreaking' and increasingly common.
‘It is extremely sad to see these figures and to hear of the countless individuals and families who are struggling not only financially but emotionally and mentally,’ he said.
‘We know there are hundred of thousands of Australians in need of safe accommodation, meals, financial assistance and other practical support.’
‘We also know there are potentially even more people who need a listening ear, a place for community and connection and a reason to have hope.’
The research also sheds light on pets' role in providing emotional support during tough times.
A heartening 77 per cent of pet owners reported that their furry friends offered much-needed comfort, with 64 per cent attributing meaning and purpose to their lives thanks to their pets.
Fifty-seven per cent admitted to skipping meals to ensure their pets were fed.
The Salvation Army's annual report for 2022-23 highlights the organisation's critical role in providing assistance, with one person helping every 17 seconds.
Over 1.2 million beds were given to those facing homelessness, and more than 1.63 million meals were served.
Public relations secretary Andrew Hill noted a 40 per cent increase in people seeking their services in the past year, a surge attributed to the cost-of-living crisis.
‘We started to see a spike around Christmas time, and that has increased this time of year as we head into winter,’ He stated.
‘That 40 per cent increase is people coming because of the cost of living crisis, people not being able to afford to put groceries in the grocery cart, not being able to afford to turn the lights on, pay for the electricity bills and just maintain general cost-of-living expenses.’
While monetary donations to their Red Shield Appeal are invaluable, Hill recognises that not everyone can afford to contribute financially.
‘You can always donate goods to the Salvos, whether that’d be clothing or furniture,’ he said.
Similarly, amid the cost of living crisis, there has been a noticeable trend of Australians turning to charities for help.
The Salvation Army reported a notable rise in new clients seeking assistance, reflecting difficulties affording essential needs such as housing, groceries, and utilities.
Have you found creative ways to stay connected with friends and family during these challenging times? We’d love to hear your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.
With the rising cost of living, Australians are increasingly sacrificing the cherished traditions that once defined their way of life.
Recent studies revealed that the tradition of hosting friends and family, a hallmark of Aussie hospitality, has become financially out of reach for many.
The Salvation Army's research paints a picture of Australians' financial pressures. Over a 12-month period, the organisation surveyed 1,500 individuals who sought assistance from it.
The findings revealed a distressing correlation between financial strain and mental health.
A significant 67 per cent of respondents acknowledged the detrimental impact their financial situation had on their mental health, with a worrying 71 per cent reporting frequent loss of sleep due to financial concerns.
Many were pushed into homelessness by the financial strains caused by the high cost of living. Credit: iStock
A notable 60 per cent of those surveyed have curtailed spending time with loved ones, and four in ten have stopped inviting guests entirely to save on energy costs.
This withdrawal from social interaction has led to feelings of isolation, with 62 per cent of respondents experiencing loneliness.
The mental toll is further compounded by the fact that nearly half of the participants, 46 per cent, feel they cannot afford counselling services for themselves, and 29 per cent are unable to provide it for their children.
Major Brendan Nottle of The Salvation Army describes these findings as 'heartbreaking' and increasingly common.
‘It is extremely sad to see these figures and to hear of the countless individuals and families who are struggling not only financially but emotionally and mentally,’ he said.
‘We know there are hundred of thousands of Australians in need of safe accommodation, meals, financial assistance and other practical support.’
‘We also know there are potentially even more people who need a listening ear, a place for community and connection and a reason to have hope.’
The research also sheds light on pets' role in providing emotional support during tough times.
A heartening 77 per cent of pet owners reported that their furry friends offered much-needed comfort, with 64 per cent attributing meaning and purpose to their lives thanks to their pets.
Fifty-seven per cent admitted to skipping meals to ensure their pets were fed.
The Salvation Army's annual report for 2022-23 highlights the organisation's critical role in providing assistance, with one person helping every 17 seconds.
Over 1.2 million beds were given to those facing homelessness, and more than 1.63 million meals were served.
Public relations secretary Andrew Hill noted a 40 per cent increase in people seeking their services in the past year, a surge attributed to the cost-of-living crisis.
‘We started to see a spike around Christmas time, and that has increased this time of year as we head into winter,’ He stated.
‘That 40 per cent increase is people coming because of the cost of living crisis, people not being able to afford to put groceries in the grocery cart, not being able to afford to turn the lights on, pay for the electricity bills and just maintain general cost-of-living expenses.’
While monetary donations to their Red Shield Appeal are invaluable, Hill recognises that not everyone can afford to contribute financially.
‘You can always donate goods to the Salvos, whether that’d be clothing or furniture,’ he said.
Similarly, amid the cost of living crisis, there has been a noticeable trend of Australians turning to charities for help.
The Salvation Army reported a notable rise in new clients seeking assistance, reflecting difficulties affording essential needs such as housing, groceries, and utilities.
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