New national data shows many Canadians are entering 2026 carrying fresh debt, heightened stress, and a growing tendency to avoid their finances altogether, patterns that echo earlier findings linking debt to anxiety, poor sleep, and declining mental health. The survey highlights the real cost of holiday overspending and why financial stress often peaks during the darkest weeks of winter, underscoring the need for clarity, support, and practical financial solutions.
Below is a snapshot of key findings from the study:
- 51% of Canadians carried new holiday debt into January
- 75% feel more financially stressed heading into this January compared to previous years
- 29% are starting the year with over $6,000 in new holiday debt
- 1 in 2 Canadians say holiday debt harmed their mental health
- January credit card stress averages 3.4 out of 5
- 30% are actively avoiding checking their bank or credit card statements
- 18% expect to fall behind on credit card payments this month
- Nearly 1 in 3 Canadians expect it will take six months or longer to recover financially
To explore the full findings, view the complete Financial Hangover survey infographic below.
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