Manchester, UK. March 13th 2026 – Financial pressure is becoming more acute, with new data revealing that while slightly fewer people say debt affects every area of their lives, the impact on mental health, sleep, and relationships is rising.
New research released by Money Wellness ahead of Debt Awareness Week (16th-22nd March) shows that financial stress is becoming more concentrated, creating a cycle where money worries and emotional wellbeing feed into each other.
The survey of 5,000 customers found that 81% now cite money as their main source of stress, up from 72% in 2024, and 87% say they feel stressed ‘most of the time’. Crucially, 85% report that their mental health has had a direct impact on their finances.
While the proportion of people who say debt affects every area of their life has fallen slightly from 55% to 50%, the data shows that pressure is intensifying in key areas. The number of people reporting that debt is affecting their relationships has jumped from 23% in 2024 to 35% in 2026, while sleep disruption has risen from 24% to 26% over the same period.
Customers describe feeling anxious about managing payments, struggling to keep up with minimum repayments, and in some cases avoiding calls from unknown numbers in case they are creditors. For many, the stress is no longer a general background worry but something that deeply affects day-to-day life.
Sebrina McCullough, Director of External Relations at Money Wellness, said: “Financial stress is often discussed as though it’s a steady background pressure. What our latest data shows is that for many people, it’s becoming more intense and more focused. While slightly fewer customers say debt affects every area of their lives, we’re seeing sharper impacts on mental health, relationships, and sleep. That tells us the pressure isn’t disappearing, it’s concentrating.
“We are also seeing a clear cycle develop. Money worries damage mental health, and poor mental health can make it harder to manage bills, respond to creditors, or seek support. Without help, that cycle can escalate quickly.”
Encouragingly, the survey also shows that reaching out for support can make a real difference. More than two-thirds of customers who received advice from Money Wellness say they feel a weight lifted off their shoulders. Over half report feeling less anxious, and 43% say they are sleeping better.
“The earlier people seek advice the better, but it’s never too late. No one should feel they have to cope with debt and money worries alone. There is free, confidential support available, and taking that first step can provide immediate relief,” added McCullough.
As Debt Awareness Week approaches, Money Wellness is urging anyone struggling with money worries to seek advice early, before financial pressure becomes more deeply embedded.
ENDS