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For many South Africans, managing household finances isn’t about cutting back on luxuries; it’s about struggling to cover the basics. Debt, high prices and salaries that don’t stretch far enough leave many households in a constant cycle of worry. If you feel like no amount of budgeting or saving is enough, you are not imagining it. Times are genuinely tough, and you are not the only one feeling the pressure.
Why talking helps
Trying to manage financial stress on your own can feel overwhelming. The good news is that there are people and organisations you can talk to. These conversations can help you take back some control, explore your options and find support you may not know exists.
Find your support network
Don’t try to shoulder your worries and burdens alone. When it comes to your finances or anything else troubling you, there are always people to talk to. Reach out to close friends and family, your pastor or church groups, your GP, a counsellor (ask your GP to recommend one), or even support groups such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) and Lifeline.
Get the family on board
You know help is at hand, but did you know it often starts at home? For example, if you need help making ends meet, share your budget with your partner or spouse and kids and make sure they understand where costs need to be cut and why. Or explain to your family and extended family that times are tight and you won’t be able to help out with family loans. Getting everyone on the same page gives you much-needed support.
ChatGPT about it!
Don’t overlook help from ChatGPT. It’s always available to listen and offer practical, judgment-free guidance, whether that’s building a budget that works for your lifestyle, spotting areas where you can cut costs without giving up too much, or finding small ways to save more consistently. You can also get help understanding how debt counselling works, comparing different financial products like life cover or funeral policies, and even planning ahead for long-term goals such as education costs, retirement, or building an emergency fund. Beyond money matters, ChatGPT can help you draft letters to creditors, prepare questions for your bank or find trustworthy resources and organisations to contact. It’s not a replacement for professional financial advice, but it can point you in the right direction, simplify complex ideas, and give you practical tools to make your money go further.
Help for debt difficulties
For most South Africans, debt is what keeps them up at night. Nearly 35 000 summonses were issued for debt in July 2025, with over R210 billion worth of debt overdue. It’s worth saying again: you are not alone. While the solution is to repay debts, doing it isn’t always easy. These are the people who can help:
- Your bank: contact them using the number on their website or visit a branch and ask for assistance with any bank debt, such as a home loan.
- Your creditors: negotiate affordable repayments, and contact details will be on your statements.
- A debt counsellor: if you are overindebted and considering debt review, visit the National Credit Regulator to find a registered debt counsellor. You can also use the debt management services from Truth About Money. Visit the website to apply and take control of your debt.
- Legal assistance benefit from Truth About Money for when your debt difficulties turn into legal matters, such as a summons: find more details at Truth About Money.
Ask your employer
Many South African employers offer Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs). These confidential programmes often include access to financial counselling, legal advice and mental health support at no cost to employees. If money worries are affecting you, it’s worth checking with your HR department or workplace EAP to see what assistance is available.
Tell your journal all about it
Writing down your thoughts and worries about money can take a huge weight off your shoulders. Journaling helps you organise your concerns, track patterns in your spending and emotions and see problems more clearly. It’s also a safe outlet to release stress and reflect on progress. Even a few minutes a day can make your financial journey feel less overwhelming and give you perspective on what’s within your control and what isn’t.
Practical support, not quick fixes
The reality is that there are no overnight solutions. Paying off debt takes time, balancing a budget takes practice and building savings is hard when every rand already has a place to go. Reaching out for help won’t fix your finances. But having the right advice, tools and support structures can empower you to take charge and find solutions AND make the journey less lonely and more manageable.
Commit to changing your and your family’s future for the better
Money issues often take time to resolve. But after a few months you will see the difference and be inspired to stay committed to the plan. Ask for support when you need it and review your plans if they aren’t working but always know that there are experts who can guide and work with you to find solutions.