Poll: Recession takes its toll on people’s mental health

The recession is taking its toll on the nation’s mental health, as figures show a rise in the number of people experiencing a mental health problem, often linked to financial strain.

The research shows more than 55% of people claim to have some experience of a mental health problem, either personally or with someone they know, compared to 37% of respondents to a similar survey in 2010.

The research — conducted on behalf of the See Change partnership to mark World Mental Health Week which starts today — also indicates that 77% of those who describe their own financial situations to be under severe strain have experienced a mental health issue, either themselves or through others.