Finding ways to navigate cost-of-living pressures

AUSTRALIANS are turning to healthy habits, routines and focusing on what they can control as they navigate ongoing cost of living pressures, according to new National Australia Bank research.

The latest NAB Australian Wellbeing Survey found while many Australians continue to face financial pressure, they are responding with practical steps to improve their overall wellbeing, build resilience and regain a sense of control.

The NAB Australian Wellbeing Index fell 2.2 points to 61.9 in Q2, with cost of living remaining the biggest source of strain, alongside stress and anxiety, health costs, work and income pressures and housing affordability concerns.

As Australians adapt to these pressures, many are focusing on the things they can control day to day, such as:

• More than a third (35 per cent) are exercising or being physically active more often;
• Around one in three are prioritising sleep and rest;
• Almost half (47 per cent) are cutting back on non-essential spending, or concentrating on what they could control
• Around one in five are using mental wellbeing techniques such as mindfulness, journaling or breathing exercises

The survey also found Australians are leaning on connection and support, with one in four spending more time with friends, family and their community.

NAB executive Lucia La Bella said Australians were making changes in all areas of life to manage their overall wellbeing.

“The research shows many Australians are continuing to face significant pressure, particularly when it comes to day-to-day living costs and financial uncertainty,” La Bella said.

“While the challenges are real, we’re also seeing people look for practical ways to manage through them, from reviewing their spending and creating budgets to focusing on routines and habits that support their overall wellbeing.

“Whether it’s staying connected with friends and family, maintaining a routine or making time for exercise, people are finding different ways to support themselves through a challenging period.”

The research found 27 per cent of Australians were using routines to feel more in control, 26 per cent were creating a budget or spending plan and around one in four were shopping around or switching providers to save money.

“What stands out is that Australians are continuing to adapt,” La Bella said.

“Many households are making careful financial decisions while looking for ways to maintain their wellbeing and support those around them.

“There are early signs things may be easing but, for a lot of Australians, the cost of living is still front of mind every day.”

La Bella said it was important for anyone struggling financially to reach out to their bank.

“If you are worried about your finances, reach out to your bank as early as possible. There is help available,” she said.

The Breath Haus, which offers modern breathwork and mindfulness in studio and online, said they were seeing more people prioritising their mental wellbeing to cope with everyday pressures.

“We’re seeing more Australians turn to simple, accessible wellbeing practices as they navigate increasing pressures in their daily lives,” Leyla Araci, lead facilitator at The Breath Haus, said.

“When so much can feel uncertain or outside of our control, routines that support nervous system regulation such as breathwork, movement and mindfulness can help people reconnect with a sense of stability, resilience and agency.

“We’ve found that people aren’t necessarily looking for quick fixes, they’re looking for practical tools that help them feel more grounded, present and capable of meeting life’s challenges.

“Small, consistent habits often have the greatest impact on long-term wellbeing.”