AD FEATURE: Tips for looking after your money and mental health this winter

I ddarllen hwn yn Gymraeg, cliciwch yma . The festive season can put pressure on your finances and mental health, so a nationwide charity is offering vital support to make sure no one in Wales faces these challenges alone. Mind Cymru has launched a campaign to help people manage money and their mental health this winter.

It is encouraging people - especially those with mental health problems who might be eligible for benefits or extra support - to get support and advice from its website and phoneline. Sue O’Leary, executive director at Mind Cymru, said: “Sorting out your finances might feel overwhelming, especially if you’re struggling with your mental health and have lots of other things to think about, like Christmas. “But things can feel more manageable if you take them one step at a time.



“Worries about money can impact your mental health. And your mental health can affect how you manage your money, so it’s important to get help if you need it. “We want to let people know that there’s no shame in reaching out for support, and that help is out there.

” Tips for looking after your money and mental health Mind Cymru has come up with a range of tips that can help you manage your money and mental health this winter...

These are different for everyone. Are there times when you’re more likely to spend money on things you might not need, or can’t afford? What are the emotions and feelings you experience when thinking about money? Are there aspects to dealing with money that make your mental health worse? This can feel overwhelming so it can help to take things step by step. First, put all your important documents in one place so you can find them easily, such as letters, bank statements, payslips, bills, and receipts.

Next, put a reminder in your phone or calendar to check your bank balance and pay bills each month or week. Consider when you can best tackle this, and try to build money tasks into your regular routine. Then, make a list of all the essential things you need to spend money on each month, such as rent or mortgage, energy bills, phone bills, and food shopping.

Sometimes having a clear idea of what money is coming in and out can help you feel a bit more on top of it. And, if it doesn’t balance out, there are lots of places you can go for help with debt or advice on benefits and budgeting. Remember, we all need help from time to time – there’s no shame in asking for support.

It’s also important to make sure you’re claiming any extra money or support you’re entitled to. Mind Cymru and the local Mind network in Wales provide mental health information, support and services to make sure no-one in Wales faces a mental health problem alone. For information and support, visit mind.

org.uk/money or call the Mind welfare benefits line on 0300 222 5782. Welfare benefits phoneline available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm excluding bank holidays.

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