Financial stress

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Financial stress is the emotional and psychological strain that can arise when someone is struggling to manage money, debt, or financial responsibilities. It can affect day-to-day life, relationships, and wellbeing, and may lead to feelings of anxiety, shame, overwhelm, or loss of control.

Ongoing financial strain can take a serious toll on mental health, contributing to withdrawal, reduced sense of control, and an increased risk of depression, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts.

Financial stress can arise from job loss, reduced income, debt, and the rising cost of living. These pressures can lead to shame, self-blame, and feelings of failure, particularly where financial stability is closely tied to identity or self-worth. For men, expectations around being a ‘provider’ and the stigma around talking about money can make it harder to speak openly or seek support.

Over time, ongoing money worries can strain relationships, disrupt sleep, lower self-confidence, and leave people feeling trapped or unable to see a way forward. Fear of judgement can further delay help-seeking. Without support, these pressures can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.

420,000

people in problem debt in England consider taking their own life each year.

1 in 6

people with money problems report that they had suicidal thoughts.

3 in 50

people have considered taking their own life due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Signs of financial stress

Recognising the early signs of financial stress can help people access support sooner, before pressures escalate or become overwhelming.

Changes in mood or behaviour, such as increased anxiety, irritability, or withdrawal.
Avoiding bills, bank statements, or conversations about money.
Borrowing money, missing payments, or relying heavily on credit.
Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities due to financial concerns.

Using alcohol or other unhealthy coping strategies to manage stress.
Gambling behaviours, such as secrecy, chasing losses, spending long periods online, or spending beyond their means.
Constantly worrying about money or feeling unable to find a way forward.

Risk factors and triggers

Financial stress can build up gradually over time or be triggered by a sudden change in circumstances. Both can affect mental wellbeing and increase suicide risk.

Sudden loss of income (redundancy, job loss, benefit changes or sanctions).
Relationship breakdown or bereavement affecting household finances.
Unexpected financial shocks or urgent bills.
Aggressive or repeated debt collection activity (calls, letters, bailiff action).
Rapidly increasing debt due to charges, fees, or interest.
Sudden inability to meet essential payments or rent.

Persistent poverty and not having enough money for essentials (food, heating, housing).
Ongoing financial insecurity or uncertainty about income.
Long-term debt burdens and repayment plans that feel unmanageable.
Relying on credit for everyday essentials and getting stuck in debt cycles.
Ongoing difficulties with gambling.

Real stories

These stories from well-known men show that even after serious financial setbacks and mental health struggles, recovery is possible and support can make a difference.

Clarke Carlisle, English former footballer

Following the loss of his football career and a major TV role, Clarke Carlisle experienced severe depression and financial pressure. At his lowest point, he felt hopeless and struggled with suicidal thoughts. Through professional support, honest conversations, and the help of those around him, he recovered and rebuilt his wellbeing. Today, he shares his story to show that no matter how dark things feel, recovery is possible.

Ryan Thomas, British actor

After finding fame at a young age, Ryan Thomas struggled with debt and financial difficulties, eventually being declared bankrupt in 2013. Rather than letting the experience define him, he used it as a learning opportunity and rebuilt his life. His story is a reminder that financial setbacks do not have to determine your future, and that positive change is possible.

Ed Mitchell, TV presenter

When debt and financial difficulties became public, Ed Mitchell felt overwhelmed, ashamed, and trapped. By accepting both practical and emotional support, he gradually regained control of his finances and rebuilt his confidence. His experience shows that reaching out for help and taking small steps forward can lead to hope, recovery, and a brighter future.

The Silent Addiction

In this powerful and hopeful talk, Patrick Chester shares his personal experience of gambling addiction, exploring its impact on himself and those around him, the consequences of addiction and the challenges of recovery.

“I believe through our darkest days, we can find the light. I found my soul through my struggle.”

Patrick Chester

Are you struggling?

Financial stress can feel overwhelming, but small, practical steps can help you regain a sense of control and reduce the pressure.

Talk to someone you trust about your financial concerns or spending habits.
Review your income and spending to understand where your money is going and identify areas for change.
Focus on one step at a time by prioritising urgent payments and essential bills.
Delete apps that encourage spending or make it easy to overspend.
Give your bank cards to someone you trust or keep them somewhere difficult to access. Some people find it helpful to avoid credit cards completely.
Limit time on social media if adverts or online content tempt you to spend.
Delay non-essential purchases. You could tell yourself, “I will buy this tomorrow if I still feel like it then.”
Keep a wish list instead of making impulse purchases.

The following services can provide practical support, advice, and emotional help if financial stress is affecting your wellbeing.

Talking Money

Confidential financial guidance and support. Experts can help with budgeting, income maximisation and debt problem resolution.

StepChange

Free debt advice, and a range of solutions, tools and resources for people across the UK who are worried about money.

GamCare

Support for people affected by gambling harm. 24/7 Gambling Helpline, one-to-one counselling, online chat, and peer support, as well as practical tools to help individuals reduce or stop gambling.

Stay Alive app

Whether you’re struggling with your mental health or suicidal thoughts, or supporting someone else, our NHS-recommended Stay Alive app offers practical tools and access to over 800 resources to help you stay safe.

Grounding techniques

Access breathing exercises and grounding techniques that can help deal with overwhelming anxiety, pain, or emotions.

Safety plan

Create a Safety Plan to recognise warning signs early and outline the steps you can take if a suicidal crisis is beginning or escalating.

LifeBox

Upload photos and memories to your LifeBox. These reminders can help ground you, bring comfort and offer a moment of calm when you need it most.

Stay Alive app

All of these tools and more are available on our Stay Alive app, making them easy to access when you or someone you are worried about is struggling.

Did you know? Our free app was the first in the UK, has won multiple awards and is helping a million people all over the world. Please consider a donation (whatever you can afford) to continue to develop the maintenance and development of our app.

Story of hope

John shares his powerful story of how struggling with work and experiencing suicidal thoughts led him to reassess what really mattered to him. By reframing his priorities and looking at life from a different perspective, John began to find a renewed sense of purpose and a way forward.

Are you worried about someone?

It can be hard to talk about money, but listening, offering support, and encouraging someone to seek help can make a real difference. Here are some ways you can support someone you are worried about:

Send them a link to this web page so they have all the resources and signposting they may need.

If someone approaches you with concerns about their financial situation, the first step is an easy one: just listen. Offering emotional support to someone who is struggling can go a very long way.

Don’t judge or dismiss their feelings.

It can be hard to talk about money but talking to them about it can take some of the pressure off them. You can start a conversation by asking ‘Who would you feel safe talking to?’ or ‘Has anyone else noticed you are struggling?’.

If you are worried they are feeling overwhelmed and having suicidal thoughts, our Ask now, save lives page has guidance on how to start a conversation. Asking someone if they’re suicidal could protect them.

The following organisations offer advice, guidance, and practical support for helping someone affected by financial stress, debt, or gambling-related harm.

Step Change

Advice on recognising the signs of financial stress, starting conversations about money, and supporting someone while looking after your own wellbeing.

Breakeven

Information, counselling, and peer support to help you understand gambling-related harm and support someone affected by it.

Change Mental Health

Practical guidance on the relationship between money and mental health, including information on debt, benefits, budgeting, and finding support.

Stay Alive app

Our award-winning Stay Alive app provides additional information on how to keep someone safe, including warning signs, practical steps, things to avoid and more.

Learn more about how to approach a conversation about suicide and support someone who may be struggling.

Gain the skills to support men

Our half-day mental health and suicide prevention training is focused on supporting men. It is a practical, discussion-based session that will help you recognise distress, understand myths and key risk factors. It trains you to start conversations, respond safely, and connect someone with appropriate support.

Whether you’re experiencing financial stress yourself or supporting someone who is, remember that help is available and recovery is possible. Small steps, practical support, and open conversations can make a real difference, and no one has to face these challenges alone.

Men's Suicide Prevention Hub

Find more advice, sources of support, and explore risk factors for men.