ABSTRACT
Background
Financial problems and associated mental health difficulties are growing concerns in the United Kingdom. The Ostrich Community (OC) Programme is an internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy–informed programme developed to support people experiencing debt-related distress.
Aims
This qualitative study explored the influence of financial stressors on the physical and psychological health of individuals who engaged with the OC Programme. It also considered how participants’ experiences could be understood in relation to the Five Areas cognitive behavioural therapy model.
Materials and Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 participants attending health and community centres in Manchester, UK. Interview data were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. The themes identified from participants’ accounts were then considered in relation to the Five Areas cognitive behavioural therapy model.
Results
Six themes were identified: self-limiting thoughts, financial avoidance, triggers and drivers, impact of debt on mental health, impact of debt on physical health and results from taking action. Participants reported that debt-related stress affected their thoughts, emotions, behaviours, physical well-being and life circumstances. Some participants also described perceived benefits from taking action and engaging with the OC Programme.
Discussion
Mapping the themes onto the Five Areas model provides a structured way of understanding participants’ experiences of debt-related mental health difficulties. The findings suggest that debt-related distress may involve interacting cognitive, emotional, behavioural, physical and situational factors.
Conclusion
This study provides qualitative insights into the experiences of individuals managing debt-related distress and engaging with a CBT-informed digital intervention. The findings may be useful for counselling and psychotherapy practitioners working with clients affected by financial stress, although further research is needed to explore the programme across larger and more diverse samples.