Although the peak of the current cost of living crisis was in 2022, for families across Scotland most of us are still struggling with rising prices. 74% of people say that their mental health is suffering as a result. What can you do to help manage your mental health under financial strain?
What are the effects of the Cost of Living crisis on mental health?
It’s important to make sure you’re looking after yourself – here are some tips on dealing with some of the challenges of the Cost of Living.
Financial difficulties affect all areas of our lives, and with more than half of us struggling to afford the basics, it’s no wonder that our national mental health is taking a hit. You may be under particular strain if you’re in a household earning less than £15k, or if you are dealing with existing physical or mental health conditions.
When money is tight, we’re less likely to have access to the basic building blocks of wellbeing – we may struggle to eat well, to be able to take part in our hobbies, to leave the house, or to access support. It becomes more difficult to connect with others or to look after ourselves, as we weigh the costs against each other.
Financial struggles can limit your ability to meet basic wellbeing needs. Here are some suggestions for addressing these needs without spending much. At times, you may only manage the bare minimum – that’s okay. Take care of yourself as best as you can, whenever you can.
Resources for stress
The cost of living can lead to significant financial stress, affecting both your mental and physical health. About 1 in 4 people report losing sleep due to financial worries, which can leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or panicked. This anxiety may make it difficult to focus on anything else and can heighten feelings of listlessness.
Explore our resources for more support: Understanding Stress and Managing Stress.