SEC17 WK:#4: The Effects Of Economic Hardships On Families

A cup of garri goes for 300 naira in small retail shops around my area.
Comparing that to the income of my parents and the amount of garri each person in the family consumes, you'll know that a lot of money has to be spent just to see that every single person at home is fed to satisfaction.

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Before, as a family of four, we used to consume 4 or 4 and a half cups of garri each meal time.
But now, due to recent complaints of my mom. I personally had to cut it down to 3 or 3 and a half each meal time, since I'm always the one preparing the garri.
You can imagine how small each person will have to take. But we manage it, because we have to.

They say we rise by lifting others. But, cost of living don de rise oh...salary and income no follow rise oh😂😂
Even Dollar don dey rise since, e no gree carry Naira along😂😂😫

If I come to your house and you offer me a plate of food. If I refuse to take it, it's either I'm shy or I don't want to look like a begger. So, force me🥴🥴
Force me oooo😂😂😂
You no sabi if I chop comot for house. Force me🥴🥴🥴😫😂

Some Effects Of Economic Hardship On Families

Economic hardship has had significant impact on families in several ways which includes:

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Financial strain:
Some families. Infact, most families find it very difficult to pay bills, afford basic necessities, not to talk of covering unexpected expenses. This can even lead to increase in stress and anxiety.

Limited opportunities:
Access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities have been limited for most families due to economic hardship in the country.

There's this saying that the poor will become poorer and the rich will become richer.

Because the poor will not be able to pay and take risk in business or job opportunities. The little money they have is for feeding . But the rich can invest thier money , take risk. Because they have enough for that.

You see, it can perpetuate the cycle of poverty and make it difficult for the poor to improve their financial situation.

Family dynamics:
About the garri issue I talked about earlier. I can't count the number of times I would have received slaps. If not that my mom can actually control her temper😂😂😂😂
Economic hardship can strain relationships within a family, which leads to family conflict, and breakdowns in communication. Some parents may also feel guilty for not being able to provide for their children.

Overall, economic hardship can go as far as affecting a family's financial stability, thier physical and mental health and overall quality of living

What Are Some Steps A Person Can Take To Cope With The Economic Hardship

Budgeting:
Creating a detailed budget in order to track income and expenses is helpful in situations like this. By doing so, you would be able to prioritize essential needs, and cut unnecessary expenses. This can help you manage your financial resources effectively and also identify areas where savings can be made.

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Increase income:
Consider taking on extra work , side hustle, freelancing, anything legal that'll bring money into your pocket. Look for job training programs, career development opportunities, or even education grants to reduce expenses for your parents and sponsors, if you're a student. Search everywhere for money. Not just one place. Two, three , four ain't even enough 😂😂😂😂

Communicate openly:
Communication is very vital during this time of financial challenges. Share your thoughts with family members and friends in other to develop a plan to address the issues. Open communication can foster mutual support, strengthen bonds, and brainstorm creative solutions to overcome hardships.

Focus on self-care:
Do not overthink into anxiety. Prioritize mental and physical well-being by practicing these self-care activities;
Exercise, relaxation and seeking emotional support from friends, family, or even a therapist if necessary.

Seek financial advice:
Consult a financial experts, advisor, counselor, or social worker to get personalized guidance on how to manage expenses and debts, setting financial goals, and developing a long-term financial plans.

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Conclusion

We all know that the cost of living is greatly increasing. While the standardbof living in some families is deteriorating. In as much as we know the consequences of this hardship, we should also make sure that we take all necessary precautions and come up with plans to mitigate it's intensive effect on us.

I would like to invite @bossj23 @imohmitch and @Zekanem to participate.

Please tap on the link below to do so
https://steemit.com/hive-139765/@steemkidss/sec-s17w3-the-effects-of-economic-hardships-on-families