As we start a fresh year, I wish I could say that things are finally getting easier for Atlantic Canadian households. The unfortunate reality is that for many people, they aren’t.
Families are quietly carrying more stress than they let on. They’re doing their best—working hard, cutting back where they can, telling themselves “This will be our year.” And yet, the pressure keeps building.
One of the biggest challenges on the horizon is mortgage renewal. Nearly 60% of Canadian mortgages are up for renewal in 2026, and for most households, that will mean higher interest rates and significantly higher monthly payments. For some, it will be manageable. For others, it will be the moment where everything starts to feel overwhelming.
At the same time, the cost of everyday life hasn’t let up. Groceries alone are expected to cost the average family about $1,000 more per year. That’s not luxury spending—that’s food on the table. When we add utilities, insurance, transportation and debt payments, it’s no wonder so many people are feeling stretched too thin.
The reality is this: Things are not getting easier on their own, and the part we don’t talk about enough is overall wellness. What concerns me most isn’t just the numbers—it’s the toll this financial pressure takes on people’s health and wellbeing.
Financial stress doesn’t stay neatly contained in a spreadsheet. It shows up as poor sleep, constant worry, tension at home, difficulty concentrating at work and a feeling of being “stuck.” Over time, it impacts mental health, physical health and relationships.
As a non-profit credit counselling organization, we see this every day. People often reach out only when they’re at a breaking point. And almost every time, they say the same thing: “I should have done this sooner.”
The good news is you have more options than you think. One of the most common misconceptions we hear is that help only exists at the very end of the road—that the only options are bankruptcy or a consumer proposal. That simply isn’t true.
Many people can benefit from budgeting support, debt management programs and one-on-one financial counselling long before things reach a crisis point. Sometimes, small changes and a clear plan can make a meaningful difference. Sometimes, restructuring debt can relieve pressure and create breathing room. And sometimes, just having a trusted, judgment-free conversation is the first step toward feeling hopeful again.
You do have options. And you don’t have to figure them out alone.
If you’re telling yourself, “This will be my year,” it absolutely can be—if you take action.
I know how easy it is to tell ourselves that things will improve soon—that next month will be better or that rates will come down or that we’ll catch up once life slows down a bit. But if the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that waiting rarely brings relief. If your finances are causing stress, affecting your sleep or weighing on your sense of well-being, you can’t afford to wait any longer. Not because you’ve failed, but because you deserve support.
Things can be different in 2026. But change usually starts with one small, brave step: reaching out, asking questions and exploring your options. At our organization, we believe financial health is a critical part of overall wellness. Our role isn’t to judge or pressure—it’s to listen, educate and help you find a path forward that works for YOUR life.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain or simply tired of carrying this alone, please know this: support is available. And taking action today could make the year ahead feel lighter, steadier, and more hopeful.
You don’t have to do this alone. We’re here when you’re ready.
Susan Eisner
CEO, SolveYourDebts.com
