Debt and mental health: protections you didn't know existed

Financial difficulty and mental health are deeply connected. Research from the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute shows that people in problem debt are three times more likely to experience a mental health condition.

Your legal protections

1. FCA vulnerability guidelines

Under FCA rules, creditors must treat you fairly if you're in a **vulnerable situation** — including mental health conditions. They must:

2. Mental Health Breathing Space

This is more powerful than standard Breathing Space. If you're receiving **mental health crisis treatment**, you can get:

To access this, your mental health professional needs to confirm you're in crisis treatment. Your debt advisor then applies.

3. The Debt and Mental Health Evidence Form (DMHEF)

This is a specific form creditors use to get evidence of your mental health condition. Benefits:

Practical steps if you're struggling with both

Tell your creditors

You don't need to share every detail. A simple statement works:

"I am currently experiencing a mental health condition that is affecting my ability to manage this debt."

This triggers their vulnerability procedures.

Ask for communication preferences

You have the right to:

Use a debt advisor as your representative

If you can't face dealing with creditors, a debt advisor can do it for you. Free services:

Access the DMHEF form

Ask your debt advisor about the Debt and Mental Health Evidence Form. Your GP can complete it, and it's one of the most effective tools for getting creditors to take action.

Free mental health support

Your mental health matters more than any debt. If you're in crisis, please reach out.