poverty and mental health
breaking the cycle of hardship starts with tackling the link between poverty and mental health
Experiencing poverty at any age can contribute to poor mental health by increasing chronic stress, social stigma and trauma exposure. 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, 17% of the population live in relative poverty after housing costs are considered and as many as 1 in 5 children grow up in poverty [Scottish Government].
Living in poverty can significantly affect mental health and wellbeing. The stress of making ends meet, living in inadequate housing and struggling to afford necessities can put people in poverty at risk of mental health challenges. For example, individuals in poverty may face depression, anxiety, alcohol or substance use, or even suicidal thoughts. In fact, suicide rates are 2.5 times higher in the most deprived areas compared to the least deprived in Scotland [National Records of Scotland].
By understanding how poverty influences mental wellbeing, society can better support those in need and provide them with access to appropriate care and resources.
myths about poverty and mental health
people in poverty just need to work harder and their mental health will improve
Poverty creates numerous barriers. Limited access to mental health services and the daily struggle to meet basic needs can make it difficult to manage mental health.
poverty only affects mental health in adults
Children and young people 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 are poverty and mental health linked?
The connection between poverty and mental health is well-documented. Living in poverty exposes individuals to a number of stressors, including:
- Food insecurity
- Homelessness and housing instability
- Unemployment, redundancy or retirement
- Limited access to healthcare.
These challenges can place significant pressure on mental wellbeing and increase the risk of stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.
 impact of poverty on mental health
Poverty can affect mental health in a number of ways:
Chronic stress: Ongoing concerns about housing, food, energy bills and other essential costs can lead to increased stress and anxiety.
Distress: Poverty can cause distress, leaving individuals feeling overwhelmed, powerless and trapped in their circumstances. These feelings of hopelessness can make it harder for individuals to believe that their situation can improve.
Seasonal pressures: Celebrations, such as birthdays, Christmas or new year 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.
Isolation: 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.
who is most affected?
- Chrildren and young people: Poverty can increase exposure to adverse childhood experiences, such as trauma or household dysfunction, which may have lasting effects on mental wellbeing. In Scotland, approximately two-thirds of children had experienced at least one adverse experience by age 8 [BMJ Paediatrics Open].
- Older adults: Fixed incomes, rising living costs and social isolation can increase vulnerability to both poverty and poor mental health.
- Minority ethnic groups: Alongside financial hardship, experiences of discrimination and inequality, such as racism, can compound mental health challenges. In Scotland, 44% of minority ethnic people live in poverty in contrast to 18% of white people [Joseph Rowntree Foundation].
how to help yourself
There are ways to manage mental health despite the challenges of poverty:
1. 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.
2. Benefits:
If you live in Scotland, you might be eligible for certain benefits and welfare rights 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 who can help you find out what you are entitled to.
3. Build a support network:
Surround yourself with people who understand and care about your situation, such as talking with friends, family or peer support groups. Having a reliable support system can help reduce feelings of isolation, encourage support seeking and dispel stigma.
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 as 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
- StepChange:Â A charity specialising in helping people through debt and provide free debt advice. Call 0800 138 1111 (Monday to Friday 8 am to 8 pm, Saturday 9 am to 2 pm).Â
- The Poverty Alliance: A network working to combat poverty in Scotland.
- Citizens Advice Scotland: Offering free advice on financial worries, housing and legal rights among other services. Call the advice helpline on 0800 028 1456 or speak to an advisor at your local branch.
