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Original poster

Is it normal to hoard money after trauma?

32 replies

OneSpryCyanFox · 17/01/2025 17:16

I experienced some traumatic events last year, particularly financial and emotional stability, and I’m concerned about how it’s affecting my relationship with money. It’s led to this strong urge to save and hold onto money as a way to feel safe. I know some people might see it as being overly cautious but I wonder if this is a common response for others who’ve experienced similar situations.

Is it normal to feel like you need to hoard money after going through trauma or is this something I should work on letting go of? Have others experienced this and how did you find a balance between saving for security and actually enjoying life?

OP posts:
Suzuki76 · 17/01/2025 17:29

I understand hoarding cash. When COVID kicked off I had a few niggling fears about the banking system going down/cash points being empty. This was before we had definitions of Key Workers.

I think it can be normal to want a safety net after trauma. The most common amongst people I know was those who have experienced domestic abuse and want a permanent escape fund for any future issues. But not to the point where they won't buy a coffee, replace worn shoes etc.

iamnotalemon · 17/01/2025 17:27

I totally understand that. My financial independence is important to me due to being stuck in a horrible situation when I was younger and not being able to leave.

I'd say I'm careful with money but not tight.

Plastictrees · 17/01/2025 17:25

This is very normal. If it starts to interfere with your life though or feels out of control, I’d recommend getting therapy.

Original poster
OneSpryCyanFox · 17/01/2025 17:25

DustyLee123 · 17/01/2025 17:18

I personally like to have 6 months worth of bills/food etc in the bank, incase I can’t work for some reason.
How much would you feel comfortable having, or is it never enough?

I sometimes wonder if I’ll ever feel like it’s enough. The trauma I went through has made me hyper-aware of how quickly life can change, so even when I hit certain savings milestones, there’s still this lingering feeling of needing more for security.

Did you arrive at the 6 month figure as a personal choice or was it something you learned from financial advice? And do you ever feel tempted to go beyond that or does it feel like the right balance?

OP posts:
Zuve · 17/01/2025 17:24

Yes we have a box hidden away with some money in. Just enough to shop with in emergency

JLou08 · 17/01/2025 17:24

I've never really thought about it but I know a few people who hoard money, one who always has £1000 in cash in case of an emergency. What kind of emergency I don't know. All 3 have experienced trauma and have experienced poverty.

DustyLee123 · 17/01/2025 17:18

I personally like to have 6 months worth of bills/food etc in the bank, incase I can’t work for some reason.
How much would you feel comfortable having, or is it never enough?

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