Help is at your fingertips

WITH the festive season approaching and cost-of-living pressures continuing to affect households across the country, Beyond Blue and Financial Counselling Australia have launched a new free re-source to help people manage their finances and look after their mental health.

The Money and Mental Health Toolkit includes practical tips for ma-aging thoughts and emotions, budgeting, having conversations with banks or utility companies and finding the right support when you need it.

Its launch comes as demand for financial support via the National Debt Helpline phone service remains high, with almost 170,000 calls and chats in the 12 months to the end of October.

Recent results from Beyond Blue’s Australia’s Mental Health and Well-being Check found financial pressure was the leading cause of distress for nearly half (46%) of all respondents.

Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said the festive season could be a particularly challenging time for many people, when financial and emotional pressures often intensified.

“There are so many expectations around this season and that can bring added pressure, especially when money is tight,” she said.

“Financial stress and mental health are closely connected.

“Financial stress can affect how people feel, think and act. It can lead to sleep issues, relationship strain, and a sense of hopelessness. But it also works the other way – when someone’s mental health is impacted, it becomes harder to manage money, make decisions, or seek support. It’s a two-way relationship.”

Financial Counselling Australia CEO Dr Domenique Mey-rick said the Toolkit was a timely and practical resource for people who may be feeling over-whelmed.

“Financial stress can be isolating. People often feel ashamed or unsure about where to turn. The Toolkit offers a start-ing point – it’s about help-ing people take small steps, reflect on their situation, and feel more confident reaching out for support.

“Silence and avoidance are common reactions to financial stress, but they can make things feel even more overwhelming. Financial counselling through the National Debt Helpline is free and confidential, and it can make a real difference. We want people to know they’re not alone and that support is available.”

The Money and Mental Health Toolkit is available now on the Beyond Blue website.