It’s OK to Ask for Help: Where to Turn When Money Gets Overwhelming

Worrying about money is a lot more common than you might think. Whether it's missed payments, rising bills, or feeling like things are getting out of control, financial stress can affect anyone, regardless of their situation.

In fact, around two in three Brits say they’re finding it hard to cope financially, especially with the rising cost of living. Feeling anxious or overwhelmed is completely normal, but there are simple steps you can take to ease the pressure and start feeling more in control.

We know it’s not always easy to talk about money worries, but you’re not on your own. This guide is here to provide helpful advice, tools, and support so you can start feeling more in control and confident about your finances - TSB is here to help, with experts available to support and guide you.

Signs of money and debt stress

Money worries and debt can affect anyone, including those in full-time employment. YouGov polling for StepChange reveals that in the UK, about 9% of people (roughly 2.8 million) are dealing with problem debt, and over half of these individuals (52%) are in full-time work. Recognising the early signs of money and debt stress can help you to take action before things start to feel overwhelming.

Some common emotional and behavioural signs you might notice include:

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Avoiding bills or financial statements
• Increased anxiety or mood swings
• Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless

You might also spot some practical signs of financial stress, such as:

• Struggling to keep up with payments
• Regularly using your overdraft
• Relying on payday loans or borrowing to cover essentials

Money worries can also affect your health and social life too. You might notice things like:

• Trouble sleeping or fatigue
• Headaches or other stress-related health issues
• Pulling back from social activities or feeling isolated

If any of the above sound familiar, remember that you’re not alone, and support is available. Reaching out and talking about your financial stress is a positive move toward taking back control. Whether you need help with budgeting, managing debt, or just someone to listen, there are trusted resources ready to guide you.

Identifying the source of your money worries

Taking a moment to figure out what’s really causing your money stress is a good place to start. For some, it might be something clear, like an unexpected bill. But for others, things can feel a bit more complicated and harder to pin down.

• Money worries are incredibly common and can affect anyone. You might be:
• Struggling to manage debt, such as credit card or loan repayments
• Relying on an overdraft more than you'd like, or dealing with unexpected bills
• Facing gambling-related financial issues
• Going through a tough time, such as bereavement, illness, or job loss
• Coping with complex vulnerable challenges, like financial abuse or caring responsibilities

Whatever your situation, try writing down what’s on your mind or talking it through with someone you trust, like a friend or family member. Recognising the specific issue you’re facing makes it easier to find the right kind of support. And sometimes, just saying it out loud, and recognising that you need support, can make things feel more manageable. 

Why it’s important to ask for help early

It’s easy to bury your head in the sand when it comes to money worries. But asking for help early on can really make a huge difference. The sooner you speak to someone, the more options you’re likely to have, whether it’s adjusting payment plans, accessing support funds, or getting advice to avoid things potentially getting worse.

Many people delay getting financial help because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or anxious about being judged. It’s completely normal to feel unsure about asking for help, but it’s important to remember that support services are here to help you, not to criticise you. Whatever your circumstances, you won’t be the first person to feel overwhelmed by financial difficulties, and you certainly won’t be the last.

Reaching out early gives you more time, more choices, and more control. It’s a positive step, not just for your finances, but for your peace of mind and wellbeing too. Confidential, non-judgmental help is out there for everyone, no matter how big or small the problem feels.

Immediate steps to ease financial worries

When money worries start to feel overwhelming, taking a few small, practical steps can help you regain control. Here are some simple steps you can take today to ease some of the stress right away:

Track your spending - Note down everything you spend over a week and a month to get a clearer picture of where your money is going. Getting an overall picture of how you spend your money is a great first step towards building a budget and finding a way forward, as well as finding areas where you can cut back and save some cash, too.

Create a basic budget - Put together a budget where essential payments are prioritised, such as your rent or mortgage, utility bills, food shop, and commuting expenses. Map out how much these essentials set you back each month to determine what you have left over to address your financial situation. Then you can start to make a realistic plan moving forward based on what you can afford.

ApTap (18+ and UK residents only) will analyse and organise your bills and subscriptions for you and help create a monthly budget. You can view your bills and subscriptions as a list or a calendar to see your monthly spending and upcoming expenses, keeping you on top of your money.

Set up payment reminders or automations - Use your banking app * or calendar to set reminders. Automating regular payments can also help you avoid missed deadlines and penalties

Identify non-essential spending - Using your new budget and tracked spending, look for where you can cut back on non-essential expenses. Cancel any unused subscriptions, start making coffee in a to-go cup rather than going to a cafe on the way to work, set limits on online shopping, or even cancel your Friday night takeaway for a while. You’ll be surprised how just a few pounds here and there can really add up.

Speak to someone - Whether it’s your partner, a friend, a family member, or a professional, it’s really important to share your situation and how you’re feeling about it.

You can always call our telephone banking team on the number below, lines open 8am to 8pm.

03459 758 758 (UK)

+44 (0) 20 3284 1575 (overseas)


Where to get money help

There are plenty of trusted places you can turn to for advice and support about your financial situation. Here are just a few to get you started.

Financial Support Services

If you’re finding it hard to keep up with payments, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it on your own. Reaching out to your bank, utility providers, or creditors as early as possible can make a real difference. Many have support in place and may be able to offer flexible payment options or temporary breathing space.

If you bank with us at TSB and money worries are starting to feel overwhelming, our Money Confidence Experts are here to listen and help. We understand that everyone’s situation is different, and we’ll work with you to find tailored support that fits your needs—because you deserve to feel more in control of your finances.

Government and Charitable Organisations

There are several well-established organisations that offer free, confidential advice for those who need money help, including:

• StepChange: offers free debt advice and a range of solutions, tools, and resources for people across the UK who are worried about money.
• MoneyHelper: an online resource hub about all things money and pensions, offering free and impartial advice backed by the Government.
• Citizens Advice: offers free advice on debt, benefits, budgeting, bankruptcy, debt management plans, and general consumer advice.
• PayPlan: free online debt advice that provides tailored solutions and practical steps to help you regain control of your finances.

These services are especially helpful if you're unsure where to start or feel stuck in a financial rut and need an extra helping hand to get back on your feet.

Independent Debt Advice

Specialist debt advisers can help you with debt plans, budgeting, and managing repayments, and even provide emotional support. Speaking to someone who understands your situation can make a huge difference.

Online Resources and Tools

There are also loads of free budgeting tools available, such as MoneyHelper’s budget planner.

You can also find ways to cut your energy bills with tips and tools from Snugg**. 

Online support forums can help you feel less alone and share practical advice. Remember that reaching out and asking for help is a positive step; you really don’t need to shoulder money worries on your own.

Tips for when you decide to seek help

You've taken the brave, positive step to get some support. Now, what can you do to prepare before speaking to any advisers or creditors?

Gather important, relevant documents - Collate any key financial information you think may be relevant in advance of reaching out for support. Recent bank statements, payslips, benefit letters, and any bills or debt details can help give a clear picture of your situation. The more prepared you are, the easier the conversation will be.

Know what to expect during your first conversation - When you chat to a financial adviser, creditor, or support service for the first time, they’ll want to get a clear picture of your situation, such as your income, spending, and any debts you’re dealing with. It’s a relaxed, confidential conversation, not something to worry about. No one’s there to judge you – they’re there to listen and help you work out the best next steps.

Be an open book - It’s really important to be honest. Even if things feel messy or you’re embarrassed, the more open you are, the better the advice you’ll receive. These professionals deal with money worries every day. However big or small the issue feels, there are solutions and people ready to help you find them.

Looking after your wellbeing while managing money worries

Money stress can really take a toll on your emotional and mental wellbeing. It’s completely normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or frustrated when money is tight.

And while your financial situation may feel all-encompassing, you need to remind yourself that taking care of yourself is just as important as managing your finances. Make time for activities that help you relax, such as going for a walk, talking with a friend, or doing something you enjoy. Simple breathing exercises or mindfulness can also help reduce anxiety when money worries start to build up. NHS Better Help has some brilliant advice and tips on managing money worries and mental health.

If you start to notice that your worries are taking over your everyday life and you’re experiencing symptoms that are affecting your health, take action and ask for help right away. Talking to someone you trust — a friend, family member, GP, or mental health professional — can make a big difference, and there’s no need to suffer in silence. Be kind to yourself. 

Other useful resources

You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. There’s plenty of support out there for you to take advantage of. You can speak to your bank or reach out to organisations like StepChange, MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice, or PayPlan for free, non-judgmental help.

No matter if you're a TSB customer or not, our Money Confidence Experts are here to help you manage your finances. They won’t make you feel uncomfortable or judge you. They’ll simply listen to understand your needs and find the best way to support you.

For more tips on managing your money, visit our Money Confidence blog, including guides like Get a grip on debt and How to deal with unexpected costs.

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