In Debt and Can't Cope? A Calm First Step

If you are in debt and feel like you cannot cope, please know you are not alone, and this can be sorted out. Free, non-judgemental help is available, and there are calm first steps you can take today.

When debt builds up, it can feel like it is taking over everything. If you are at that point, take a breath. Things can get better, and you do not have to face this on your own.

First, be kind to yourself

Money worries can affect how you sleep, how you feel and how you cope day to day. It is completely understandable to feel overwhelmed, and it is okay to ask for help. Debt is far more common than people admit, and there is a way through it.

Do not ignore it, and do not face it alone

The most helpful thing you can do is talk to a free debt adviser. They will not judge you and they will not charge you. They deal with situations like yours every day, and they can take a lot of the weight off your shoulders.

A calm first step

If you feel able to, a simple starting point is to write down what you owe and to whom. Then, if you can, sort your debts into priority ones (like rent, Council Tax and energy) and non-priority ones (like credit cards and loans). Try not to borrow more to cover what you owe, as it usually makes things harder.

Ask about Breathing Space

There is a scheme called Breathing Space that can pause interest, fees and action from the people you owe, usually for up to 60 days, while you get debt advice. A debt adviser can tell you whether it is right for you and help you apply.

There are solutions, and you do not have to choose alone

There are different ways to deal with debt, from simple payment plans to more formal solutions. You do not need to work out which one is right, that is exactly what a debt adviser is for. Their job is to find the best way forward for your situation.

Looking after yourself matters too

Money and mental health are closely linked, and struggling with debt can take a real toll. If things feel heavy, please talk to someone you trust, or your doctor. You deserve support with how you are feeling, as well as with the money side.

Where to get help

A free advice service can help you take that first step, deal with the people you owe, and find a way forward.

Organisations such as Hope 4U may be able to help. Eligibility is based on available location funding.

Questions people often ask

I'm in debt and can't cope, where do I start?

Start by talking to a free debt adviser, who will not judge or charge you. If you feel able, write down what you owe and try not to borrow more. A calm first conversation often makes things feel far more manageable.

Is debt advice really free?

Yes. There are free, confidential debt advice services, and they will never charge you. Be careful of companies that charge for something you can get for free.

What is Breathing Space?

Breathing Space is a scheme that can pause interest, fees and collection action on your debts, usually for up to 60 days, while you get debt advice. An adviser can help you apply.

Will I go to prison for debt?

For almost all everyday debts, such as credit cards, loans and overdrafts, you cannot be sent to prison. Try not to let that fear stop you from getting help, as things are very likely more fixable than they feel.

This is general information and not debt advice for your specific situation. A free debt adviser can look at your circumstances and help you find the right way forward. If you are struggling with how you feel, please also reach out to someone you trust or your doctor.