“Debt can cause and be caused by mental health issues. It can be an easy option to just not think about it as it can be uncomfortable and can make you feel increasingly guilty, depressed and even hopeless. But resolving finance-related problems can help to support your mental health and give you a greater sense of wellbeing and control in your life.
A study by the Royal College of Psychiatrists says that:
- 1 in 4 adults will have a mental health issue at some point in their life.
- 1 in 2 adults with debts has a mental health issue.
- 1 in 4 people with a mental health issue is also in debt
Debt can often be related to life changing events, not being in receipt of the right benefits or lack of awareness of financial and emotional support available.
At Mary Frances Trust, we have a self-referral service available to Surrey residents (16+) that can help you deal with debt and restore your wellbeing. Our Wellbeing Advice and Information Service is delivered by Lenny who has 20+ years experience supporting people with all kinds of money and debt issues. The service is available over the phone and video to people living in Banstead, Epsom & Ewell, Elmbridge and Mole Valley. To apply for this service, please fill in our registration form and we will contact you within 2 working days to schedule an appointment.
Please note that on top of debt and money issues, Lenny can support with issues such as housing, PIP, benefits, carers issues, self-advocacy and any practical issues affecting your mental wellbeing.
How Do We Help?
If you apply to receive support from us, we can give you a budget MOT, do a benefits check, advise on other financial support available, including community fridges and foodbank vouchers.
We can also support your mental health as financial difficulties can often lead to anxiety, stress, low mood, depression or other. It is better to tackle both at the same time!
Further Support and Resources
Citizens Advice – Breathing Space
Additional support and advice can be granted through Citizens Advice, such as Breathing Space, a 60-day break where payment demands are frozen to give space and time to get free advice and make decisions about finances. Further debt and money advice is available on the Citizens Advice website.
Further information on the Breathing Space scheme can be found on the Government’s website.
Stepchange
Visit their website: www.stepchange.org
National Debtline
Read the Mental Health and Debt Fact Sheet
Money Saving Expert
Read the Money Saving Expert Debt and Mental Health Guide
Mind
Visit the Mental Health & Money section of the Mind website.
Mental Health & Money Advice Website