Feeling overwhelmed by financial stress and its impact on your mental health? The charity CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) can offer essential support, providing you with the assistance you need during tough times.
Money. Just thinking about it can bring up a lot of emotions.
So why does it make us feel so … stressed? And why does talking about it often come with feelings of shame or embarrassment — even when we know we’re not alone?
If you’re experiencing money worries, you’re not alone. The way it affects you can be wide-ranging. Everyone responds differently, but you might feel:
- Anxious about how to find more money
- Ashamed or worthless
- Like you’ve failed
- Worried about your future or your family’s wellbeing
- Panicked or stuck, as if there’s no way out
- Physical symptoms like tension, palpitations or headaches
- Trouble sleeping
- Suicidal thoughts
These feelings are valid, and they’re more common than you might think.
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to how we approach money. Every one of us has a relationship with it — shaped by our culture, upbringing, and even what we see on TV or social media.
How to talk about money
Skint, broke, hard up — there are lots of ways to describe being short on cash. But finding the right words to talk about money stress can still be tough.
If financial worries are piling up and affecting your mental health, here’s some practical advice to help you open up and feel more supported.
It gets easier the more you talk about it
Normalising conversations about money — even when you’re not struggling — helps break the silence and reduce stigma. It can make it easier for your friends to open up too, knowing they’re not the only ones thinking about it.
Life’s expensive right now, and the more we can support each other in talking about it, the better.
Get free financial advice
Sometimes it’s just better to let the pros handle it. If money stress is piling up, there’s support out there — from free debt advice to budgeting help and emotional support. You’re not alone, and trusted organisations are ready to help.
- MoneySuperMarket: financial tools and guides to help people take control of their money
- PayPlan: the UK’s largest provider of free debt solutions
- The Money Charity: helping people achieve financial wellbeing through money management
- Citizens Advice: advice on money and other life issues
- StepChange: impartial advice to help people take control of their finances
These services are free, confidential and there to help you find the support that’s right for you.
Struggling with money can affect every part of our lives - from how we feel about ourselves to how we connect with others. It’s tied to things like responsibility, how we feel about success, how we socialise and how we work, which can make it feel overwhelming. But these challenges don’t define you and they won’t last forever. With the right support to help find a way forward, things can get better.
Remember, just because you can’t afford a round doesn’t mean you can’t hang out with your friends. If you’re looking to save some money, there’s still loads you can do. Swap pricey meals out for a takeaway or bring-a-dish night with friends or family – and just because you’re eating in doesn’t mean you have to dress down. Make an occasion of it.
Spending time with people you care about — even in low-cost ways — can be a real boost for your mental health. It’s not about what you spend, but how you connect.
You might also be surprised by the free activities near you, like local parks and places to hike or cycle, art exhibitions, libraries, museums, or events. Plus, there’s plenty of wallet winning options like cheap comedy nights, movie marathons, games nights, or markets to explore.
Ways to say you’re struggling with money
There are some situations when telling someone you’re short on money just feels tough. There’s support out there — and ways to make it easier.
Sometimes there are events or spends that are really hard to say no to - birthday parties, pre-wedding celebrations, a colleague’s retirement gift (even if you’ve only ever exchanged a quick hello), or the annual holiday with friends that’s become a tradition.
It can feel like there’s pressure to spend, even when it’s not doable. But being honest about money can feel awkward – yet still bring people closer. Most of us have been there, and opening up can help others feel safe to do the same.
If you’re squirming at the idea of pressing send on that message you’ve been agonising over, here are some ways to bring it up:
- “Hey, I know we had plans to go to that gig, but money’s a bit tight at the moment. I’d still love to see you — how about chilling at mine or heading to this free event I found?”
- “Hi, I’m finding things a bit tough financially right now — would you mind if I skip the meal and just join for drinks after?”
- “Hey, I know we usually do a weekend away this time of year, but cash is tight. Is there something fun we could do that’s a bit more budget-friendly?”
- “Hello, I’m really not going to be able to afford the group meal. Fancy meeting up to chat about it?”
Where else to ask for help
When dealing with financial stress, it's important to know where to turn for help. Whether it's talking to friends and family or seeking support from various organisations, there are resources available to assist you. Here are some options to consider:
Friends and family
Talking about money is often the thing we least want to do with those closest to us – it’s uncomfortable, we get it. Sharing your financial stress with a trusted loved one is a good first step in figuring out how to move forward.
Support groups and organisations
If your financial stress is linked to addiction – whether it’ gambling, alcohol, substance use or debt, there’s help available. Millions of people have faced similar challenges and there’s nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about.
You can find support through the NHS website, MIND, or PayPlan for debt advice.
If you feel like there’s no way forward, don’t struggle alone
Debt or money problems can feel overwhelming. If you’re struggling, one of the most powerful things you can do is talk to someone you trust - whether that’s a friend, family member or a professional.
It might feel like a huge task, but opening up is often the first step towards finding a way forward. Money can have a big impact on your mental health, but with the right support, things really can get better.
If money’s affecting your mental health, you’re not alone - and there’s support out there. Check out CALM’s Financial Stress Guide, or if things feel overwhelming and you're struggling to see a way forward, reach out to CALM’s helpline. Their support is free, confidential and non-judgemental — and talking to someone could be the first step toward feeling better.
