In response to the heightened financial concerns marking April as ‘Awful April’, Lanarkshire Mind Matters has introduced the Money Worries programme, aimed at tackling the mental health repercussions of money-related anxieties.
Developed by NHS Lanarkshire Psychological Services, the Money Worries programme delves into crucial topics including understanding the nexus between financial struggles and mental well-being, fostering new coping mechanisms, addressing financial apprehensions, and acquiring budgeting skills.
Lanarkshire Mind Matters, an initiative striving to enhance psychological well-being across Lanarkshire, hosts the programme on its website.
Dr. Simon Stuart, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Digital Lead for Psychological Services at NHS Lanarkshire, emphasized the significant impact of financial strains on individuals’ mental health, underscoring the cyclical nature of stressors that permeate various aspects of life.
“The Money Worries programme, accessible through the Lanarkshire Mind Matters website, offers a digital therapy course designed to disrupt the cycle of stress stemming from financial woes,” Dr. Stuart explained.
Clarifying the program’s approach, Dr. Stuart clarified, “We are not suggesting that money problems are purely psychological. They are not—current circumstances are undeniably challenging. However, any form of assistance can make a difference.”
Participants who self-refer to the program will gain insights into the intricate relationship between financial challenges and mental health issues while acquiring practical strategies to effectively manage their concerns.
Utilizing evidence-based cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), the course equips participants with essential skills to navigate financial difficulties with heightened confidence.
Moreover, participants will access an array of resources including personal anecdotes, interactive quizzes, mindfulness exercises, and journaling activities to enrich their learning journey.
The program’s flexibility allows individuals to seek support conveniently via smartphones, computers, or tablets, empowering them to address their mental health needs at their own pace and convenience.
