A local organisation that provides mental health support has seen an increase in people coming to its service who are struggling with anxiety due to the rising cost of living – and there are concerns that not enough people are accessing help when they need it.

Insight IAPT, which delivers free, NHS-funded talking therapies across Nottinghamshire, is encouraging anyone who is feeling low, worried, or stressed about the rising cost of living to get more support. Experts say that if you’re struggling to cope it’s important to get help as soon as you can, you don’t need to wait until you reach rock bottom.

A recent poll conducted by Sky News and YouGov reported that nearly a third of people say they feel more depressed about the rising cost of living than they did six months ago, with one in five saying the crisis is affecting their sleep. The team at Insight IAPT are reporting that a significant number of referrals coming into their service are related to financial worries, and there are concerns that more people who may not realise they can access help, are struggling alone.

Emma Wood, service manager at Insight IAPT, said: “Over the past six months, we have seen a huge increase in people coming into our service with anxiety over their financial situation. We’re concerned this is just the tip of the iceberg and even more in our region are struggling with their issues and not seeking the support available to them.

“We know it’s easy to dismiss feeling low as just ‘one of those days’, but if one of those days turns into one of those months, it’s vitally important that you reach out and get help. Our service is completely free and can be accessed online, via telephone, or through your GP.”

Insight IAPT has launched a new campaign, helping to raise awareness of their free support, and asking people to seek help if they are struggling.

Anyone who is struggling with their mental health can access Insight IAPT’s service by talking to their GP, calling 0300 555 5582, or visiting www.insightiapt.org.