We’re in the middle of the biggest cost of living crisis in our generation. And there is often a link between struggling with money and our mental health. Worries about money can have an impact on your mental health. And your mental health can affect how you manage your money.
If you need support with money, your mental health, or both, you might find these suggestions helpful.
Find information and advice from organisations like…
• The Mental Health and Money Advice website, which has guides on claiming benefits when you have a mental health problem, and managing money as your bills rise.
• If you need help accessing benefits, Oxfordshire Mind’s Benefits for Better Mental Health Service is here to help (phone: 01865 247788). We know it’s hard to access benefits. But it’s important to know that benefits are there to support you.
• Citizens Advice, which offers free advice on your rights around money, housing and legal problems.
Explore help available for getting essentials, like…
• Food banks near you. Visit the Trussell Trust’s website to find your nearest food bank.
• Cost of living payment. It’s an extra payment to help with the cost of living crisis for people entitled to certain benefits or tax credits.
Visit the GOV.UK website and search ‘cost of living payment’ for details.
If you’re a student, speak to student services or your tutor. They could help you search and apply for extra grants or bursaries.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, try and talk to someone you trust. Oxfordshire Mind’s Information Service can provide you with free support, and access to local mental health services. Phone: 01865 247788, or email info@oxfordshiremind.org.uk.
So many of us are finding things difficult at the moment. If you need support with money, mental health, or both, visit our money and mental page today.