Coping with financial worries

Before we dive into breaking the silence, let's face reality: you're not alone in this struggle. Recent UK statistics reveal the true extent of financial stress affecting millions of British families.

• 7 million UK adults (13%) are behind on at least one household bill (Citizens Advice, March 2025)
• Over 25% of UK adults experience a mental health difficulty each year (Our Future Health, May 2025)
• Approximately 10% of adults are behind on an energy bill or council tax (Money Advice Trust, April 2025)
• Sixteen per cent (1 in 6) of people experiencing serious financial difficulties report having thoughts of suicide (Mental Health UK, 2025).

These aren't just numbers; they stand for millions of people sitting silently, just like you might be right now.

Admitting There’s a Problem Is the First Step

Admitting financial struggles is often very difficult. Even in 2025, about 27% of people say they wouldn’t discuss debt with friends or family (Money Charity, June 2025). Unfortunately, staying silent can worsen the situation.

If you’re unsure about opening up, keep in mind that those close to you may already sense that something is wrong. Changes in behaviour are noticeable, and keeping everything inside typically increases questions and stress.

You're Not the Only One

First, always remember that you are not the only one, and social media does not reflect real life!

Anyone in debt will tell you that shame and embarrassment are among the initial emotions they must overcome. Society has done a great job of fostering these feelings. For some, debt makes them feel they've lost control; others believe they have failed, and the list continues.

We've seen this more times than we care to admit. Feeling vulnerable and isolated, those in debt can start to believe they are the only ones in this situation; they feel completely alone.

The Reality Behind the Instagram Feed

To add salt to the wound, a quick scroll through Instagram or Facebook reveals image after image of happy people spending money, jetting off on luxury holidays, dining at expensive restaurants, purchasing the latest luxury kitchen equipment, or getting the must-have bouncer for the baby. It can make you feel like everyone else has it all together, everyone except you!

But here's the truth hidden behind those perfect posts:

• The average UK household owes £66,892 (including mortgages) (Money Charity, June 2025)
• 38% of people in relationships have financial secrets, a hidden account, debt, or spending (Barclays, Feb 2025)

Social media shows the highlight reel, not the reality. That couple posting from their weekend away might be relying on credit cards. That new kitchen? It could be financed. That perfect lifestyle? Often built on borrowed money and hidden stress.

The Power of Sharing Your Burden

Choose someone you trust to talk to about your situation as soon as possible. Whoever came up with the old saying 'A problem shared is a problem halved' wasn't wrong.

Sharing your situation with someone close to you whom you can trust will take a weight off your mind. Unfortunately, many people underestimate those around them or fear feeling judged.

When these people pluck up the courage to share their issues, they often get responses like:

Why didn’t you talk to me about this earlier?" "Why did you just suffer in silence?

People who are close to you care about you (that's why they are close to you in the first place). They care if you are suffering and want to do all they can to prevent you from feeling this way. When they find out, they are often more upset that you didn't feel able to talk to them about something bothering you so much.

The Mental Health Connection

The statistics on debt and mental health emphasise the importance of seeking support; it's more vital than ever.

• 46% of people in serious financial trouble also report significant mental health challenges (Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, May 2025)
• And having a mental health condition makes debt far more likely.

This creates a vicious cycle where debt worsens mental health, and poor mental health makes it harder to manage finances effectively.

We understand it's easier said than done, but it's important to set aside your ego and confront reality.

Prioritising your ego often stops many from confiding in someone close, like a partner, that they need help. This is especially true when the other person appears to handle their finances well, making your situation seem less secure. Keep in mind, if your loved one isn't aware of what's going on, they can't offer assistance or support. Trust and honesty are crucial elements of a healthy relationship.

The Cost-of-Living Context

Your financial struggles aren't occurring in isolation. Britain is experiencing an unprecedented cost-of-living crisis that impacts millions.

• Sixty per cent of people say the cost-of-living crisis is affecting their mental wellbeing (Barclays, May 2025)
• Nearly a third of couples say financial pressure has strained their relationship
  

Understanding this broader context can help reduce the shame. Your situation isn't a personal failing; it's a reflection of challenging economic times affecting millions of British families.

We encourage you to be open with your partner; most partners in a relationship will show you why you are with them. Unwillingness to open up about your situation may show in other ways and cause tension in your relationship.

Act Early!

Don't let your situation worsen to the point where sharing it becomes unbearable.

• 25% of people have hidden purchases
• 17% have concealed debt
  (Credit Karma, March 2025)

Some people find it difficult to admit they can't afford a gift for their partner or tend to overspend to impress them, even when it isn't financially possible. They often mistakenly believe that lavish spending is necessary to maintain their partner's approval. This leads to a worsening situation as they try to uphold a facade until the topic of financial trouble inevitably arises. When their partner uncovers the true extent of their debt, it can significantly threaten the relationship. Usually, the problem isn't solely the debt but the deception of appearing financially secure when the reality is the opposite.

The Financial Infidelity Problem

Research reveals the extent of financial secrecy in UK relationships:

• 38% of people in relationships have secret accounts or hidden money (Aviva, 2025)
• 17% of people have hidden debts from their partner (Weightmans, 2025)
• 25% of people have hidden purchases from their partner (Aviva, 2025)
• 26% of couples argue about money at least once a week (Aviva, 2025)
• 22% of people find talking to their partner about money "awkward" (PensionBee, 2024)

This secrecy often stems from shame, but it creates a dangerous cycle where problems grow in the shadows while relationships suffer from dishonesty.

The Real Debt Guy is Here If You Need

If you're finding it hard to open up to family or friends, remember you’re not alone; we have your back:

• Our free guides, videos, and tools are here to help you see your options clearly - no jargon, no creditor or debt collector bias.
• You can also talk to The Real Debt Guy directly - whether that’s through a one-to-one consultation, joining our supportive Facebook group, or booking a quick Discovery Call to see how we can help you with your situation.
• Use our 'I need help with debt' section to receive personalised steps, all crafted with your mental well-being in mind.

You’re not alone, whether you prefer self-help resources, quick online support, or a private one-to-one conversation, The Real Debt Guy is here to make taking that first step easier.

Workplace Support

Many employers are recognising the impact of financial stress on their workforce:

• 71% of employers believe staff are distracted by personal debt problems at work
• 39% of employees feel financial struggles prevent them from performing at their best
• 54% of employees say financial stress impacts their ability to work effectively
• 80% of employees admit that stress (largely financial) impacts their productivity
• More companies than ever are offering financial wellbeing programmes and employee assistance programmes as standard benefits

Don't suffer in silence at work either; find out what support your employer may provide.

The Real Debt Guy is a qualified financial adviser and a UK debt expert. The information in this article is considered to be true and correct at the publication date.