As tax season rolls around each year, so does that familiar wave of stress. Whether it’s the pressure of looming deadlines, the confusing forms, or the fear of making a mistake, it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry, you’re not the only one.

Financial stress is one of the most common sources of anxiety for many Canadians. In fact, a 2025 study from FP Canada found that 42% of Canadians said money was their biggest source of stress: more than work, health, or even relationships. Taxes might be just one piece of that, but for many of us, it brings on a heavy emotional and mental load.

 

Signs of Tax-Related Anxiety

  • Procrastination or avoidance: Putting off filing, avoiding emails, or feeling stuck even thinking about it
  • Physical symptoms: Trouble sleeping, headaches, or tightness in your chest when trying to manage your finances
  • Perfectionism or fear of mistakes: Worrying excessively about getting things wrong or even being audited

 

What You Can Do

It’s okay to take a deep breath. You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Try breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps. That might look like gathering your receipts today, and then scheduling a time the next day to start filling out the forms.

It might also help to reframe how you think about it: doing your taxes isn’t a test — it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s a trusted accountant, a knowledgeable friend, or a supportive partner, you don’t have to go through it alone.

And if tax stress is stirring up something more, like financial fear, burnout, or long-standing anxiety around money, therapy can be a space to explore that.

 

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The content of this blog is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health provider or physician with any questions that you have regarding mental health concerns. If you think you have an emergency, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.