poverty and mental health
breaking the cycle of hardship starts with tackling the link between poverty and mental health
Poverty is one of the most significant drivers of poor mental health: acting both as a cause and consequence. Experiencing poverty, whether in childhood or adulthood, can contribute to poor mental health through factors such as chronic stress, social stigma and exposure to trauma.
At the same time, mental health problems can increase the risk of falling into poverty due to loss of employment, reduced earning capacity or breakdown in social and support networks.
In Scotland, 21% of the population live in relative poverty after housing costs are taken into account, with children being particularly affected. It’s estimated that almost one in four children grows up in poverty. Suicide rates are three times higher in the most deprived areas compared to the least deprived, showing a clear link between poverty and mental health outcomes.
Common myths about poverty and mental health
people in poverty can easily improve their mental health by working harder
Poverty creates numerous barriers, such as limited access to mental health services and the daily struggle to meet basic needs, which can make it difficult to manage mental health.
poverty only affects mental health in adults
Children and adolescents growing up in poverty are also at greater risk for mental health issues, including anxiety, eating disorders and depression.
mental health services are accessible to everyone,
regardless of income
Financial constraints, lack of safety nets and long waiting times often prevent people in poverty from accessing the mental health care they need.
How is poverty linked to mental health?
The connection between poverty and mental health is well-documented. Living in poverty exposes individuals to a variety of stressors, including food insecurity, homelessness, unemployment, redundancy or retirement, and lack of access to healthcare. These ongoing challenges place immense pressure on mental health and contribute to trauma and the development of mental health conditions like depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and anxiety.
Childhood adversity (also called Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)), such as exposure to abuse or household dysfunction, is one of the ways in which poverty and deprivation have an impact on mental health. In Scotland, approximately two-thirds of children had experienced at least one adverse experience by age 8.
Moreover, specific holidays like Christmas can amplify the financial strain on those already struggling. The pressure to spend on gifts, festive activities and social events can lead to feelings of inadequacy and increased stress.
The social exclusion often linked to poverty compounds mental health struggles. People may feel marginalised or stigmatised due to their financial circumstances, leading to feelings of low self-worth, isolation and hopelessness. Without adequate resources, many individuals in poverty cannot access the mental health support they need, allowing issues to worsen over time.
What is the emotional impact of poverty?
The emotional toll of poverty can be devastating. Constant pressure to provide for basic needs like food, housing and general day-to-day living can often lead to chronic stress and exhaustion.
This distress can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and trapped in their circumstances. In addition to the immediate emotional challenges, poverty often leads to feelings of hopelessness and powerlessness, making it harder for individuals to believe that their situation can improve.
That is why recognising the stigma associated with poverty and mental health is also vital. Open conversations about the impact of poverty on mental wellbeing can help destigmatise the issue and encourage people to seek support when they need it most.
How to help yourself
There are ways to manage mental health despite the challenges of poverty:
Seek support: Many organisations offer free or affordable mental health services and financial advice. Reaching out can help alleviate some of the emotional burden. We have provided a list of support options at the bottom of this page.
Benefits: If you live in Scotland, you might be eligible for certain benefits if you are living in poverty. You can read more about it on the Social Security Scotland website or you can contact one of our advisers.
Build a support network: Surround yourself with people who understand and care about your situation. Having a reliable support system can help reduce feelings of isolation.
Focus on self-care: Prioritise small but meaningful acts of self-care, such as going for a walk, practising mindfulness or grounding techniques, or simply taking time for yourself. These habits can provide moments of relief and improve mental wellbeing over time.
Poverty and mental health are closely linked. However, by raising awareness and providing accessible support, it is possible to break this cycle and improve the mental wellbeing of individuals affected by poverty.
support
Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.
We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well supporting with debt, grants and benefits.
The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.
For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.
other support
A charity specialising in helping people through debt and provide free debt advice.
A network working to combat poverty in Scotland.
Offering free advice on financial worries, housing and legal rights among other services.
