When we think of financial hardship, we often picture someone out of work or without income. But many people who are employed—working full-time or even juggling multiple jobs—are quietly battling debt behind the scenes. 

At The Debt Advice Service, we speak to people every day who are earning a wage but still overwhelmed by financial stress. Being in work doesn’t always mean being financially secure. 

The Financial Pressure No One Sees 

On the surface, things might look fine. Regular income. A job title. A routine. But underneath, there’s the constant mental burden of: 

  • Keeping up with bills and credit payments 
  • Rising food, fuel, and rent costs 
  • Anxiety over unexpected expenses 
  • Fear of falling further behind 
  • Shame about struggling “despite working hard” 

This pressure builds up silently and can have a real impact on your mental and physical health. Many people feel they can’t talk about it for fear of being judged, losing face at work, or appearing like they’ve lost control. 

When Work Doesn’t Mean Stability 

Being in employment can make it harder to ask for help. The stigma around debt can be even heavier when you’re “meant to be doing okay.” But here’s the reality: you’re not alone. 

💬 A survey conducted by GoCompare in 2025 found that over half of UK adults reported that money worries are affecting their mental health. 

Debt doesn’t discriminate. Whether you’re on minimum wage, self-employed, or earning a decent salary, if your outgoings are higher than your income, the result is the same: stress, shame, and a growing sense of isolation. 

Mental Health and Money: A Two-Way Struggle 

Debt and mental health often go hand in hand. One affects the other, creating a cycle that’s hard to break: 

  • Mental health issues like anxiety or depression can make it harder to manage money 
  • Financial problems then increase feelings of stress, low mood, and hopelessness 
  • That emotional burden can make even small financial tasks feel impossible 

You might find yourself avoiding letters, missing payments, or feeling overwhelmed by decisions. And when you’re trying to hold it all together at work, the strain can be exhausting. 

You Deserve Support—Even if You’re Working 

It’s okay to say, “I’m not coping.”
It’s okay to ask for help.
It doesn’t matter if you’re employed—debt can happen to anyone, and support is for everyone. 

At The Debt Advice Service, we provide no obligation, confidential, and non-judgmental debt advice, whether you’re in work, between jobs, or managing a mix of income sources. 

We can help you: 

✅ Understand your options
✅ Prioritise your payments
✅ Deal with creditors
✅ Regain a sense of control and peace of mind 

Take the First Step—Today 

If you’re working but still struggling with debt, please know: you don’t have to face it alone. 

📞 Contact The Debt Advice Service for free, confidential help from people who understand what you’re going through. 

👉 Get started today: www.thedebtadviceservice.co.uk/contact-us 

A Final Thought 

Just because you’re employed doesn’t mean you have to carry everything alone. Your mental health matters, and so does your financial wellbeing. During Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s break the silence around working and struggling. 

You are not alone. Help is out there—and things can get better. 

For free advice go to Moneyhelper.org.uk – we are not associated with Money Helper.  If you enter a solution with TDAS fees may apply. 

Money on my mind: over half say money worries are affecting their mental health | GoCompare News