Scots in Debt Urged Not to Struggle in Silence

People with debt problems in Scotland are being urged not to struggle with their issues alone and to reach out for help and support if they need it.

That encouragement has come from the charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP), which has been highlighting some of the mental health challenges that so many people are dealing with alongside issues with problem debt.

To coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week, the charity has revealed research that suggests a growing number of Scots with debt problems are also experiencing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Indeed, almost two-thirds of people in debt who were polled recently in Scotland said that they often or always feel as if they do not have anyone they can turn to when they’re struggling financially.

The CAP has been keen to emphasise that there are always people and organisations that Scots can reach out to for help and support regarding their debt problems.

“Right now, we know many people are feeling isolated, scared and forgotten as they struggle alone with their debts, not aware of the free help available,” commented Emma Jackson, CAP Scotland’s National Director.

“Mental Health Awareness Week is encouraging people to start conversations about loneliness, which I wholeheartedly agree with.

“Living with the kind of constant anxiety that debt creates often leads to feelings of isolation and loneliness.”

Notably, the CAP’s recent research appeared to show that feelings of loneliness and isolation among people in debt has worsened rather than improved since Covid-related restrictions on socialising were lifted.

In fact, the latest evidence suggests that the cost of living crisis is having a seriously damaging impact on the finances and the mental health of a lot of people in Scotland.

“For many of us, the easing of lockdown restrictions in Scotland meant an end to isolation, but for thousands of low income households struggling with problem debt and poverty, the isolation and loneliness they feel is actually getting worse due to the cost of living crisis and mounting debts,” explained Ms Jackson from the CAP.

If you live anywhere in Scotland and you are worried about your debt problems then Scotland Debt Solutions can help. Contact us directly to arrange a FREE and confidential consultation.