New research1 has uncovered the emotional impact of financial stress across the UK, revealing a strong connection between money worries and strained relationships.
The research, commissioned by Virgin Money in partnership with mental health charities Mind and SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health), shows that 89% of Brits report experiencing money worries, with one in three admitting they regularly worry about their finances.
The findings reveal that younger adults are most affected, with 97% of 25–34 year-olds reporting financial concerns. This is closely followed by 18–24s and 35–44s (both at 96%), while those aged 65 and over are the least likely to worry (75%). Women are more likely than men to feel worried about money (91% vs 86%) and more likely to report a negative impact on their mental health as a result of concerns (52% vs 46%).
For many, these concerns are long-standing with one in five admitting they’ve been dealing with money worries for over five years. The emotional impact of this is significant, with 43% feeling anxious, 41% stressed, and 32% fearful about the future. While 26% feel overwhelmed and 21% feel depressed. However, for some, financial stress has been a catalyst for change, with one in five saying their worries have motivated them to take action.
Despite the widespread nature of these concerns, many choose to keep their money worries hidden. The study found that 27% have hidden money worries from their parents, 24% from friends and 22% from their partners, with men more likely than women to hide financial concerns from their partners (26% vs 18%).
The reasons for staying silent include not wanting to cause concern (38%), avoiding burdening others (37%), embarrassment (25%), and fear of looking like a failure (24%). Privacy also plays a role, with 31% preferring to handle financial stress alone and 29% viewing it as a private matter. However, this secrecy comes at a cost, with one in three (31%) admitting that hiding money worries has negatively impacted their relationships with loved ones, with 35% saying it made them feel anxious or withdrawn, 31% feeling isolated and 30% feeling misunderstood and unsupported.
Raymond Pettitt, director of customer services and operations at Virgin Money, said: “Money and mental health are deeply connected, yet too often people suffer in silence.
“As we approach World Mental Health Day next week, it’s important to remember that mental health doesn’t take a day off and financial stress is one of the most common and persistent challenges affecting mental wellbeing and consequently relationships with loved ones, as our recent research demonstrates.
“That’s why we’re proud to continue our work with Mind and SAMH for another year, raising vital funds to help break the cycle, raise awareness of support available, and encourage open conversations so that no one feels they have to face these challenges alone.”
For those who are willing to be more open with others when it comes to sharing their money worries, they're most likely to turn to their partner (30%) or family (28%). Men are more likely than women to turn to their friends for support (19% vs 11%). While 16% wouldn’t seek any support at all. For mental health support, people are most likely to approach their GP (38%), partner (29%), or family (22%). However, more than half (55%) say they would feel uncomfortable disclosing a mental health issue to their bank or lender- this rises to 58% among women, compared to 52% of men.
Virgin Money is working to change that. Since the start of the year, colleagues across the bank have received dedicated mental health training, equipping them with the skills to support customers facing financial and mental health challenges. This forms part of Virgin Money’s wider commitment to mental health, which includes extending its partnership with Mind and SAMH for another year. Together, they’ve raised over £500,000 to date through fundraising initiatives like “Stride by the Clyde” which saw 226 Virgin Money colleagues take part in September and raise over £67,000 - a total that includes Virgin Money’s 50% match - in support of Mind and SAMH.
By combining training with awareness and action, Virgin Money is helping to create a more understanding and approachable banking experience, so customers feel safer and more supported when they need it most.
Andrew Berrie, head of corporate partnerships at Mind, said: “This research highlights the impact money worries can have on our relationships and mental wellbeing. With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis putting additional pressure on people’s lives, it is so important that the right support is in place.
“It’s been encouraging to see Virgin Money equip their employees with the skills to support customers financial and mental health challenges.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to Virgin Money for the funds they have raised for Mind and SAMH. Their support means we can continue to provide vital services such as our confidential phone service, Mind Infoline, and our online peer support community, Side by Side, so people have somewhere to turn to for advice and information.”
Hazel McIlwraith, director of fundraising and major appeal at SAMH, said: “We’re so pleased to extend our partnership with Virgin Money for an additional year, and want to say a big thank you to Virgin Money colleagues and customers for raising such a terrific amount so far. Thank you for supporting Scotland’s mental health.
“As this research shows, money worries can harm our mental health and wellbeing, especially if we feel isolated and like we have nowhere to turn. My message to anyone facing mental health or financial challenges is to please reach out: help is out there.
“Later this year, SAMH will open "The Nook" in Glasgow - the first in a national network of walk-in mental health hubs offering fast, barrier-free support. No stigma, rejections, or waiting lists. Virgin Money is funding a financial advisory role at “The Nook” and we are grateful for our partner’s support as we embark on the largest mental health charity initiative in Scottish history.”
For anyone experiencing money worries that is affecting their mental health, or who feels they need someone to talk to, support is available:
- For those who live in England or Wales, please reach out to Mind.
- For those who live in Scotland, please reach out to SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health)
You can also find useful guidance on money and mental health here.
Notes to Editors
1 The survey was carried out by OnePoll in August 2025 with 2,000 UK adults.