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It is a wonderful feeling when you have moved to France and are living the dream. I know I am biased, but there is nowhere else on the planet where I would rather be.

However, as we all know, life sometimes happens when we make other plans. What if, for one reason or another, we find ourselves suddenly facing unexpected financial stress here? 

Don鈥檛 panic

I say this somewhat tongue in cheek, as I happen to be a born catastrophiser. However, I do know that this is a waste of valuable life force! Worrying achieves nothing but more worry; however, taking action can make a bad situation much more bearable. 

If you find yourself in financial trouble, the first thing is to get down to the facts. How bad is it really? 

Ask for financial help

You can approach your French bank if you wish. It is much better to ward off a negative situation by being honest and upfront. If you do not, there will be a day of reckoning one way or another and you may make the situation a whole lot worse for yourself by burying your head in the sand. 

You could also consult an organisation such as Cr茅sus (cresus.org), which helps people manage debt and their financial difficulties. 

As I always say 鈥� asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness. 

Read more: How to navigate a culture clash with your French in-laws and partner

Seek emotional support from your family and friends

We all go through tough times at some point in our lives. It is imperative that you protect your mental health as you face up to your problems. Confide in a discreet friend or family member and if you do not feel that you have anybody in your life that fits the bill, then speak to your doctor about being referred to a therapist. 

Financial stress is draining and can wreak havoc with our psyche. I speak as somebody whose homes were repossessed seven times when I was married to my first husband, and it is no laughing matter. I recall only too painfully what it was like being a single parent with no financial support and all of my ex-husband鈥檚 large debts on my back. 

Find ways to maximise your income

We are all far more resourceful than we realise. Think outside the box. If you are still of working age, explore local job opportunities. Indeed, post Covid, you can work from anywhere in the world thanks to technology. 

If you are retired, consider your working and life skills. Is there a way in which you could use any of these to increase your income? 

My father went on working until he died at 91. For him, it was down to financial necessity, but the upside was that it kept his brain razor-sharp until the very end of his life. 

Budget wisely

Work out all of your income and expenses and see if there is anywhere you can cut corners. Could you use your car less or car share? Can you shop at the end of the day when some supermarket produce might be reduced? Do you have rent or a mortgage to pay? How much are you paying utilities and could this be cut? 

There is no need to don a hair shirt and deprive yourself of all pleasures. Indeed, as my French grandma used to say: 鈥淟a vie est faite de petits bonheurs.鈥� We all need little treats and these need not be monetary or expensive. A walk in the countryside, a picnic in a new location or a trip to the local cinema are all-life affirming when we are in trouble. 

Read more: 'French healthcare is baffling and complex... but it works'

Good communication

The last thing you should do is to self-isolate and shut down. If you are in a relationship, then keeping the lines of communication open is vital. The people who care about you will want to know what is happening and will not think any less of you for sharing your stresses with them. 

And if people do judge you, that says everything about them and nothing about you. Financial stress happens to all of us. Self-harming, such as with excess alcohol, is never going to solve anything. Quite the opposite 鈥� a new problem is heaped on top of the old ones. Be honest and open with those who matter to you. 

Tips for coping with financial stress

• Self-care is of the highest importance when you are under financial stress. Do what you can to take care of your mind and body

• Seek professional help if you need it

• Create a budget and do not run up further debt

• Find out what benefits you may be entitled to in France

• Keep the lines of communication open

• Remember that no experience is wasted 鈥� you may one day be able to help somebody else when you come out the other end of your difficulties

Have you experienced financial stress while living in France? If so, how did you cope? Please email cynthia@connexionfrance.com to share with other readers.