Is it normal to feel guilty about spending money?

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9 Comments

I'm a 20 yr old male going to college and in the summer I live with my parents. I don't have a job despite applying to over 40 places. My parents struggle financially because my mom was laid off and college of course costs a lot. The only money I get is $150 a month from my grandma, $50 of which goes towards a prescription.

I feel very guilty when I spend money because I am afraid I'll run out and have to ask my parents for more. I also feel guilty when I eat because it is my parents food. I try to eat as little as possible while still functioning. My typical food intake is an instant carnation for breakfast, ramen noodles for lunch, whatever is for dinner, and a bowl of oatmeal at night.

My question basically is, is it normal that I feel guilty about spending money and eating?

Is It Normal?
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  • randomjelly
    13 years ago | pl

    Well, if your parents are struggling then you would have received financial aid. Financial aid pays for your college and leaves you with a nice lump sum for living expenses. You should feel guilty if you didn't apply. If you did apply and they turned you down then your parents aren't struggling like you think...so don't feel so bad. Check out fafsa.gov online and fill out your application TODAY!

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  • marissa_songz
    12 years ago | pl

    I always feel guilty when I spend money. It can be ANYTHING. Even a pack of gum and I get upset that I spent 2 dollars on it.

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  • kit-kat-bar
    10 years ago | pl

    Yeah, I effin hate college, maybe you can use 10percent of that cash and invest it. That way you won't feel guilty cause it will be potential income in the future, or you can buy stuff online and sell it. You don't have to get a real job to make money. You can also tell a neighbor that you are struggling and offer to help with some yard work. I don't know if you are religious, but you could go to your local church and tell the pastor of your troubles. THEY LOVE TO HELP> there are also food drives in the communities, even small towns. Get informed, not discouraged.

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  • hotchickie81
    13 years ago | pl

    I feel the same way :(

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  • [Old Memory]
    13 years ago | pl

    Me o man I fell like shit I'm blowin money

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  • rraaee
    13 years ago | pl

    Look, I'm in the same situation. I've had to learn, money is always going to be a stress to me, but almost everything works it self out. Don't stress over every dime, and make a monthly plan. Do apply for financial aid, I would be curious why you don't have it already. The best thing I did was start to talk to my parents about money, and how thing are, they should be understanding. Also from your diet it doesn't sound like you're getting good nutrition. Food isn't to much money, as long at you're not wasting it by make to much and throwing it out. Try not to stress.

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  • [Old Memory]
    13 years ago | pl

    No

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  • [Old Memory]
    13 years ago | pl

    you are wonderful!
    i hope that one day when i have children, they grow up to be as considerate as you.

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  • jrphotographer
    13 years ago | pl

    just be sure to spend your money wisely

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