Introduction
In Mexico, both men and women over 18 share similar financial concerns, albeit with slight variations in proportion. According to the Ensafi (National Survey on Financial Health) by Inegi, unexpected expenses worry 36.4% of women compared to 31% of men; food costs concern 21.9% of women and 20% of men; and debt accumulation affects 48.4% of the adult population, with a slight predominance among women.
Gender Disparities in Financial Stress
Although financial distress does not show significant gender gaps, women experience a more substantial impact on their emotional and physical well-being.
Emotional and Physical Impact
The emotional and physical toll is notably higher among women: 42.2% of them reported high financial stress levels, compared to 30.7% of men.
Nearly half of the women expressed anxiety, compared to 36.6% of men; they also reported more episodes of sadness, frustration, and irritability.
Key Financial Concerns
- Unexpected Expenses: A significant concern for both genders, with women reporting slightly higher worry levels (36.4%) compared to men (31%).
- Food Costs: Both men and women are concerned about food expenses, with women slightly more worried (21.9%) than men (20%).
- Debt Accumulation: This issue affects 48.4% of the adult population, with women experiencing a slight predominance in financial stress related to debt.
Emotional and Physical Impact on Women
Women in Mexico face a more substantial emotional and physical impact due to financial stress, with higher levels of anxiety, sadness, frustration, and irritability compared to men.
Anxiety
Almost half of the women reported experiencing anxiety (42.2%), compared to 36.6% of men.
Sadness, Frustration, and Irritability
Women also reported more episodes of sadness, frustration, and irritability than men, further highlighting the emotional toll of financial stress on this demographic.
