Can Money Buy You Happiness

A few weeks ago this question was asked as a blog prompt. I didn't answer it then because I wasn't in the frame of mind to be objective. At the time, Jimmy was out of work and our bills were so far behind, I didn't think we'd ever see the light a the end of the tunnel again. At that time I would have replied with a very loud YES! Today, I can give you my honest answer when asked: "Can money buy you happiness"?

No, I do not believe money can buy happiness. I DO believe money can alleviate stress and anxiety which in turn can cause a feeling of happiness.

When you don't have a steady income and you can't pay your bills or buy food for your family to eat or pay the rent, it's easy to fall into a deep depression. This depression can cause anxiety and panic attacks, which manifest in me as the need to stay inside and not see anyone. I can't do face to face interaction. I sleep a lot and barely eat. Mostly my mind works overtime to find a solution for the problem.

Most times the only solution is to dramatically change your circumstance, which we did.

Jimmy went back to work driving over the road. And while it is not the ideal situation for any of us, the pay is good (usually) and we once again have good insurance benefits. He will have his first paycheck today.

This means I can begin to catch up on the things we fell behind in. I can once again build up the savings account. And those things that the Little Witch has been asking for can now become a reality.

I could keep adding to the list, but there isn't any reason to. The most important things are going to be taken care of.

So, can money buy you happiness? No, I don't think it can. But money can give you peace of mind. And having peace of mind can bring you happiness. And I think happiness makes life so much easier.