Money

Money may make the world go round but it can also be a huge source of stress for people. In February 2009, our monthly poll on this site was about money. Over half of the people who replied said they felt worse as a result of money or job problems caused by the recession or as a result of all the bad news.

Things that are bad for your bank balance

Not working

Not being able to work can be a big cause of money problems. In September 2009 we asked about work. A massive 43% of people either said they weren't working and it made them feel down or that they weren't working because of depression.

Feeling crap

Depression and low mood may prevent you from working or you may have to take time off sick for which you may not get paid. It can also make it hard to deal with those difficult bills or speak to company call centres.

Studying

Being a student can also lead to money stress. You probably only have a small amount of money to live on and it may be hard to get a part time job in the recession.

More going out than coming in

It's can be very easy to live beyond your means. Maybe you deal with feeling crap by partying hard or by shopping too much. Or maybe it's just that your wages, student loans or benefits simply aren't enough to pay for the essentials in life like rent, food, power and a bit of socialising. And before you know it you're racking up the debt.

Dealing with money problems

Face up to it

Is it too stressful to look at how much you owe or open those letters from creditors? You're not alone, there's help out there.Like depression, debt is beatable with help and support.

Many money advice companies will help you speak to companies and sort out a replayment plan. There's some listed in the box on the right. Always contact a organisation offering free advice rather than the debt consolidation companies who advertise on TV and in magazines who will charge for their help.

Benefits and student support

Are you are getting all the benefits that you are entitled to? Many of the organisations listed in the box on the right can give you help and support with benefits as well as advising you on any other money problems you may have.

If you're a student are you getting all the money you're entitled to? Talk to student support services or your student union about financial support that might be available for you. Student loans have a low rate of interest and might be one option.

The best things in life are free

Well ok maybe not, but there is a lot you can do that don't cost much money. Go for a walk in the park or the country, go to an art gallery, have your mates round rather than going out. You don't need us to tell you what to do, the important thing is you do something you enjoy.

Get help for depression or stress

If you overspend to feel better or if your low mood is preventing you from tackling your money problems, treating it will help. There's plenty of useful information on this website about dealing with feeling down. The getting help section is a good place to start or why not talk to us.

 Brought to you by Depression Alliance Scotland.
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Copyright: DAS, 2010. Last updated: 08/01/10