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Christine Kelty, programs manager for adult case management at Parkview Behavioral Health Institute, shares how financial strain impacts well-being and where to turn for support within the community.
Every dollar counts
Most of us are familiar with sayings like "living paycheck to paycheck” or having “more month than money,” but these phrases don’t fully capture what that reality looks like or the pressure it creates for families doing their best to stay afloat. Internal data from a recent Bank of America report shows that 1 in 4 Americans is living paycheck to paycheck, with more than 95% of their income spent on housing, food and utilities. Individuals experiencing this situation are one unexpected bill or emergency away from crisis. Most families face these challenges alone and in isolation.
Beyond lifestyle limitations, financial strain can affect both physical and mental health. According to a longitudinal study published in the Social Science & Medicine Mental Health Journal in June 2025, financial stressors lead to an increase in mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety. It can also manifest in sleep issues, relationship conflict and poorer performance at work or school.
Defining resources
When we talk about “resources,” the first thing that comes to mind is often money. But the definition is much broader. Resources are any supply of money, materials, information, services or people that can be drawn on to function effectively.
At some point, everyone needs a helping hand. Maybe it’s caring for aging parents, facing a sudden job loss, managing a mental health crisis, juggling unexpected childcare, dealing with food insecurity or handling a spike in utility bills. Whatever it may be, you do not have to navigate this alone.
Reaching out for what you need
Searching online for help can sometimes lead to dead ends or outdated information, leaving you feeling frustrated or discouraged. To make things easier, we have gathered a few reliable resources to get you started:
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Parkview.com Local Resource Finder. This digital tool allows users to search for free or reduced-cost resources in their zip code to help with access to food, housing, medical supplies and much more.
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Call 211. In all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, dialing or texting 211 connects callers to a referral specialist with access to a database of resources available from health and human service agencies.
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United Way. This initiative works to address the underlying causes of social issues that may contribute to financial, housing, and food insecurity, among others, by partnering with local, national, and international organizations. Help from United Way is also available by calling 211 or visiting their website.
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PBHI HelpLine. There are also mental health resources through PBHI that can help address mental health stressors and help people find community resources. Connect with the HelpLine by calling 260-471-9440 or toll-free at 800-284-8439, anytime, 24 hours a day.
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Other places to get help. More common sources of community assistance include local libraries, faith-based organizations and churches, schools, social media groups and forums, and recreation centers.
Everyone deserves the peace of mind that comes from having their basic needs met. Reach out to local resources and give yourself the support you need. We all deserve to thrive and not just survive.
