Relationship
How to deal with an overspending spouse
• Time to do some management
So how do you deal with a spouse who seems to blow money at the slightest whim? Be as gentle and as loving as possible, but assertive in your mission. Here are steps you can take to deal with an overspending spouse and improve your situation.
Changing your spouse’s spending habits may seem like jumping a giant hurdle, so it is best to take the process in baby steps. Follow the procedure below in order to minimise the stress of taking on this large and often intimidating task.
Approach your spouse lovingly
Do not begin by accusing your spouse of wrongdoing or by pointing out faults. Deserved or not, this sort of treatment will only drive a wedge between the two of you and make it harder to communicate. Instead, approach the subject in a loving manner.
For example, explain that you want to start monitoring spending habits as a couple, and then start a discussion from there. Another tactic is to discuss ways to save up for something really important like retirement. Drive home the point that you are a team in your financial efforts. Otherwise, your spouse may resort to lying about spending money to you.
Set up a budget
If you have yet to make a budget, take this opportunity to set one up together. Sign up for an account with Personal Capital. The tools they have will make it really simple to start having productive conversations about where the money is being spent. If you do have one, this may be a good time to revisit it and possibly revise it. Work together with your overspending spouse to figure out what your total income is and what all of your expenses are. If you can show your spouse that money spent on frivolous items is causing you to go into debt or preventing you from saving, you are on the right track. However, it’s ideal if through the creation (or revision) of your budget, your spouse can come to this conclusion without you having to point it out.
Decide on how to control spending
If you were able to get your spouse to see the error of his or her ways, that was at least half of the battle. Now, you need to help control the spending. One way to do this is by allowing both of you to only spend a certain amount of money each pay period. I recommend using the envelope budgeting system because it utilises cash to hold you accountable to staying on budget. Once you have spent your cash, you are out of money.
Set realistic goals
Once you have talked to your spouse, set up a budget, and decided on a method for controlling spending, it’s time to look at your long-term financial goals. You both need a reason for sticking to your budget and need something to work towards. Do you need to get out of debt? Make that your first goal. Do you need to save up an emergency fund or start working towards saving for retirement? Those are also very important goals.
Tip: While you create financial goals, it’s also a good idea to make goals to strengthen your marriage, such as planning frequent date nights.
Hold regular financial meetings
Reaching your goals will be a process, and if your spouse has a habit of overspending, it may take some time to break. Hold regular financial meetings to monitor and discuss your progress. You may find that some months you regress, but most likely, you will see an emerging trend of improving finances. Use this information and the meeting time as a chance to praise your spouse and encourage each other to keep working towards your collective goals.
To be continued…
Relationship
HIV Infection: Health Director Cautions Adolescents and Couples Against Unhealthy Sexual Behaviours
Mr. George Agyemang, the Acting Wenchi Municipal Director of Health in the Bono Region, has cautioned adolescents to refrain from engaging in unprotected sex and having multiple sexual partners.
He said HIV infection was recording alarming figures in the municipality and urged couples to remain faithful and avoid extra-marital affairs to protect themselves against new HIV infections.
Mr. Agyemang gave the advice while speaking at the 2026 review meeting of the directorate at Wenchi on the theme: “Stakeholder’s Engagement and Efforts in Achieving Universal Health Coverage.”
He revealed that the municipality currently has 2,153 persons living with HIV and AIDS, with the HIV and AIDS prevalence standing at 2.5 per cent, ranking it the second highest in the Bono Region.
Mr. Agyemang further indicated that HIV infections do not discriminate, noting that people who engage in promiscuous lifestyles expose themselves to the virus. He urged those who could not control their sexual desires to always use condoms.
By GNA
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As a parent, receiving news that your child has special needs can be overwhelming. The journey ahead may seem daunting, but with the right support and strategies, you can help your child thrive.
According to Dr. Bruce F. Pennington, a renowned psychologist and expert in developmental psychopathology, “Parents are the most important agents of change for children with developmental disabilities” (Pennington, 2009). This emphasises the crucial role parents play in shaping their child’s future.
Every child is unique, and special needs come in many forms. Whether your child is on the autism spectrum, has ADHD, or another condition, understanding their individual strengths and challenges is crucial. Research suggests that parents who focus on their child’s strengths and abilities tend to experience better outcomes and higher levels of well-being (Hastings & Taft, 2015). Take time to learn about their diagnosis, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and advocate for your child’s needs.
Embracing the Journey: Understanding Your Child’s Unique Path
Establishing routines and structures can help your child feel more secure. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and use visual aids to communicate.
A study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders found that children with autism who followed a structured routine experienced reduced anxiety and improved social interactions (Gioia et al., 2018).
Do not be afraid to seek professional help from Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC) when needed, whether it is occupational therapy, speech therapy, or counselling.
Building a Support Network: You Are Not Alone
Parenting a special child can be isolating, but it does not have to be. Reach out to support groups, online communities, CPAC, and local organisations that cater to families with special needs. These networks can provide emotional support, practical advice, and valuable resources.
Dr. Jan Blustein, a leading expert on family support and autism, notes that “social support is a critical component of family well-being” (Blustein, 2012).
Practical Strategies: Navigating Daily Challenges with Ease
Focus on your child’s strengths and abilities, and encourage them to pursue their passions. This positive approach will help build confidence and self-esteem. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and acknowledge their efforts. By doing so, you will create a nurturing environment that fosters growth and development.
Celebrating Progress: Focusing on Your Child’s Strengths
As you embark on this journey with your special child, remember that you’re not alone. Seek support, prioritise self-care, and focus on your child’s strengths. With love, patience, and the right resources, you can help your child thrive.
To be continued…
Source: Rev. Counselor Prince Offei and Counselor Blessing Offei’s insights on relationships, mental health, and parenting special needs children in Ghana. He is a leading mental health professional, lecturer, renowned author, and marriage counsellor at Counselor Prince & Associates Consult (CPAC Counsellor Training Institute).
He is the author of several books, including “Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage” and “A Counsellor’s Guide to Using ‘Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage’ Effectively.”
By Rev. Counselor Prince Offei & Counselor Blessing Offei
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