How to Deal With Debt Without Losing Your Mind: A Guide for College Women and Recent Graduates

How to Deal With Debt Without Losing Your Mind: A Guide for College Women and Recent Graduates

Are you a college student or recent graduate feeling crushed by debt? Whether it’s student loans, credit card balances, or unexpected medical bills—you’re not alone. That sinking feeling of checking your bank account or dodging collection calls? It’s real. But here’s the truth: Your debt doesn’t define you—and it definitely doesn’t have to be the end of your story.

📞 Dealing With Rude Collection Calls

Let’s be honest—debt collectors can be ruthless. Some call at all hours. Some are rude or intimidating. The pressure is enough to make anyone anxious.

If you’re not emotionally ready to talk to them, that’s okay. Use caller ID or let calls go to voicemail. You don’t owe them your peace of mind. When you do feel ready, answer the phone—but on your terms. Be polite, but firm. Never agree to pay more than you can actually afford.

💡 Quick Tip: Know your rights. In some states, like New York, there’s a statute of limitations on debt collection—often around 6 years.

💸 You’re Not Helpless: Small Payments Still Count

It’s easy to feel helpless when you don’t have hundreds of dollars to throw at your debt. But here’s what many young women don’t realize—even $10 or $20 at a time makes a difference. Not just financially, but mentally too. Every little payment is progress. Every step chips away at that mountain.

👩‍💼 When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, talking to a debt advisor or accountant can make all the difference. Yes, it might cost a little upfront—but it can help you create a smart, personalized plan to get back on track.

But if you’re tight on cash (like most students and new grads), don’t worry. You can still take control of your situation.

📊 Track Your Spending (Yes, Really)

This might sound boring, but it works: Track every single purchase you make for a week. Coffee runs, impulse buys, delivery apps—everything.

At the end of the week, ask yourself: “What could I live without?” If you cut out just one $2 soda a day, that’s $14 a week—nearly $60 a month—to put toward debt.

💪 Take Back Control—One Choice at a Time

Debt can make you feel like everything’s falling apart—but you have more control than you think. Start small. Be honest about what you can afford. Forgive yourself for past choices. Then, take one positive financial step today.

📘 Recommended Read: Take Control of Your Finances

"The Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By and Get Your Financial Life Together" by Erin Lowry

Check on Amazon

You’ve got this.

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