Mental health of young people damaged by debt

Two documentary-style short films released this week aim to educate young people on how to avoid the debt trap.

Produced by the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), the films were created in response to recent research highlighting the detrimental effect that debt worries have on the lives of young people.

The study by YouthNet found that a quarter of 16-24 year olds have suffered from mental health difficulties because of their financial situation.

Created with Bafta award winning youth agency Bold Creative, the films tell the stories of two young people who found themselves slipping into spiralling debts.

Scooby found himself owing £600 in overdraft charges after his account went £1 overdrawn and he ignored warning letters to pay back the debt.

“I was getting loads of letters telling me to pay the money, but I just ignored them and put them in my bottom drawer.”

In the end, he sought advice from the CAB, who helped him pay back the debt within four months.

Adila, a student and self-confessed shopaholic, discovered her debts mounting after she succumbed to the lure of store cards.

As her debts increased, she’d go shopping to relieve the stress.

“I felt trapped and alone and didn’t know where to turn to get help,” she said.

“I didn’t want anyone to find out but I really wanted to sort my life out.

“It was such a relief to talk to the adviser at my local CAB. They are there for everyone regardless of age or how big your issue.”

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