Recognising the links between money and our mental health can be an important first step. The mental health charity Mind provides more information on the connection between money problems and mental health, and tips on how to feel more in control of your finances.

Not sure where or who to turn to for support? There are so many options it can be overwhelming, but here are a few you could look into:

• the NHS Every Mind Matters explains steps you can take to help feel more in control of your money, as well as free support if you need it
• the Mental Health and Money Advice website contains tips, tools and real life stories to help people experiencing issues with mental health and money. The ‘How can we help?’ tool can direct you to advice most suited to you.
• watch an NHS wellbeing webinar on managing financial anxiety, with experts from Money A&E and Mental Health and Money Advice
• the NHS have shared some practical advice on coping with financial worries, including the importance of staying     active, managing alcohol consumption and sticking to a routine
• if you’re struggling to keep up with debt repayments, you may be able to access a 60 day period of protection where your creditors can’ add interest or fees to your debts and can’t take enforcement action, known as a Breathing Space. The Breathing Space scheme can ease some of the pressures of dealing with debts and give you time to access debt advice or improve your financial situation by accessing benefits or     financial support. More information about managing debt is available on the Debt advice section of our website.

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