Spencer Tierney

Tools like spreadsheets and budgeting apps can help you get better at saving money. But you might need to look beyond hard numbers to get a full financial picture.

Your mental health, especially during a stressful period such as the current pandemic, can play a role in money decisions. Know that if youre dealing with a recurring mindset or behavior thats troubling and not fully manageable, its OK.

"Just identifying [mental] roadblocks can go a long way to reducing their impact," says Tara Tussing Unverzagt, founder and president of South Bay Financial Partners, a certified financial planner and a certified financial therapist.

Mental health issues vary, but some can lead to serious financial consequences. Here are three scenarios to watch out for and how to keep your mental health on track these days.

Splurging occasionally can be fun, and sometimes we feel better when we buy things we dont actually need.

"There is some point where you need to balance your financial goals with some need for immediate gratification, says Megan McCoy, director of the masters program for personal financial planning at Kansas State University, a licensed marriage and family therapist and a certified financial therapist.

More:
Your Mental Health Can Affect How You Save Money - Daily Journal Online