Psychologists warn that the crisis is having a disproportionate impact on women’s mental health
Women feel more anxious about paying bills and household costs and more depressed about the cost-of-living crisis than men, a survey suggests.
The British Psychological Society (BPS) has warned that the crisis is having a disproportionate impact on women’s mental health.
YouGov surveyed 2,006 adults in Britain between September 6 and 7 for the charity, which represents psychologists in the UK.
It found that 61% of women said they were more anxious to pay bills than they were a year ago, compared to 47% of men.
Three in 10 women said money worries made them feel depressed, compared to 26% of men.
The BPS joins a number of organizations and politicians calling on the government to increase benefits in line with inflation.
Julia Faulconbridge, a licensed psychologist and member of the clinical psychology division at the BPS, said: “We know that women often take on more childcare and household responsibilities and are more likely to have low-paying and insecure jobs, which it increases their chances of being hit by rising prices and subsequently experiencing increased anxiety, stress and worry.
“There is a clear causal link between living in poverty and mental health difficulties.”
The government has not ruled out a cut in benefits in real terms, with reports suggesting payments could rise in line with average earnings growth. A decision is expected in November, which will take effect in April.
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