"Living in poverty can have a detrimental psychological impact," says BPS
The BPS has responded to new research from Mind where they surveyed more than 1500 people with mental health problems.
10 April 2025
New research from Mind and the Centre for Mental Health has revealed that people living in poverty are more likely to experience poor mental health. Responding to the findings, President of the British Psychological Society Dr Roman Raczka said:
"These new findings confirm that urgent long-term investment in the welfare system is desperately needed to tackle poverty and improve the mental health of those most in need.
"Living in poverty has the potential to have a detrimental psychological impact. Research shows that children growing up in poverty are four to five times more likely to develop mental health problems.
"Health and social inequalities will only widen if the government fails to tackle the root causes of poverty. Investment in preventative services to help lift people out of poverty, as well as growing the mental health workforce, should be key government priorities."