Not purely BC related, but is anyone else in a financial slump caused through having bc?

It's very hard. Living on punitive government payments can be demoralising and stressful. Particularly when you have no choice. 
Op shopping can be a nice little retail buzz, visiting several stores then finding a stylishs jacket for $4 can take up a whole day.
I hate not being able to go out for a meal with my friends or turning up to lunch making excuses about not being hungry and just offering a coffee.