CreditVana Examines the Link Between Mental Health and Credit Scores
A new large-scale study is shining light on the powerful connection between credit health and mental well-being — and why understanding both may matter more than you think.
Better Finances, Better Peace of Mind
Being in control of your money, no matter your income, can help reduce negative mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety. That’s one of the key takeaways from a Johns Hopkins University–led study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology.
The researchers found a correlation between higher credit scores at the ZIP code level and lower reported rates of depression and anxiety. Put simply: people living in areas with stronger average credit scores were less likely to struggle with these symptoms.
Of course, neither credit nor mental health has a “quick fix.” But both can improve when you recognize the challenge, create a plan, and take active steps to regain control.
How the Study Was Conducted
The findings were drawn from data on more than half a million adults in Pennsylvania, using mental health questions from Carnegie Mellon University’s COVID-19 Trends and Impact Survey in partnership with Facebook.
Participants answered:
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In the past five days, how often have you felt depressed?
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In the past five days, how often have you felt nervous, anxious, or on edge?
When matched against ZIP code credit scores, the results showed clear patterns:
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Depression: 10.9% in high-credit-score areas vs. 13.7% in low-score areas
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Anxiety: 14.9% in high-credit-score areas vs. 17.4% in low-score areas
Even in higher-score areas, people still reported struggles — but the data suggests that reducing financial pressures may ease overall mental health burdens.
Why Living Within Your Means Matters
Wealthier areas generally have higher average credit scores. But importantly, the study controlled for income, education, and unemployment — and the link between credit and mental health still held up.
That means it’s not just about how much money you make, but how you manage it.
CreditVana data reinforces this: even among households earning under $50,000 annually, many members still maintain good to excellent credit. Your income doesn’t have to define your financial health — or your happiness.
The Chicken-or-Egg Problem
The study also raises a deeper question: Which comes first, financial stress or poor mental health?
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Financial struggles may trigger anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness.
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Mental health challenges can make it harder to manage bills, budgeting, or debt.
In many cases, the two issues reinforce one another. That’s why addressing both credit and mental health together can be so powerful.
Taking Control of Credit Can Be Empowering
If you’re experiencing depression or anxiety, it’s important to seek support from a qualified mental health professional. At the same time, making small but consistent improvements to your financial health can provide a sense of stability and confidence.
CreditVana offers tools to help you:
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Track and understand your credit score
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Build healthier financial habits
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Create a plan to reduce debt and boost savings
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Access personalized insights to stay in control
It may take time to see results, but simply having a plan can give you peace of mind and a greater sense of control — both financially and emotionally.
✅ Bottom line: Your credit health and mental health are more connected than you might think. By using tools like CreditVana, you can take steps to improve your financial outlook, lower stress, and move toward a healthier, more confident future.
