Tuesday 17th of March 2009
Difficulties caused by the current economic climate have led to a rise in mental health difficulties, an expert has noted.
Paul Farmer, chief executive of mental health charity Mind, explained that illnesses such as depression and stress have come about as people struggle to cope with debt management issues.
He welcomed the announcement that the government is to allocate £13 million to therapy services as a result, although he described the current situation as "unprecedented" and added that it is yet to be seen whether the investment is enough.
"We know that when people are worried about money or job security they are particularly vulnerable to developing mental health problems," Mr Farmer remarked.
His comments follow a Mind survey revealing that 91 per cent of Britons believe their mental health has worsened as a result of debt issues.
The support package was announced by health secretary Alan Johnson last week and is intended to see services available in all areas by 2010.
