This weighs on a lot of us

Worried about money

When finances are weighing on you.

You're not alone

Money worry is one of the heaviest things people carry, and it leaks into everything else. Feeling it doesn't mean you've stuffed up. What actually shrinks it is looking at the numbers and taking one step, not more worrying.

What can help

• Look at the real numbers. Not knowing is worse than knowing, even when the number is bad.
• Talk to someone free and impartial. MoneyTalks (0800 345 123) does free, confidential budgeting help.
• Take one practical step this week. Make the call you've been putting off, or sit down and work out a plan.
• Tell someone you trust. Money worry gets heavier when you carry it alone.
• Your money situation and your worth as a person are two different things. Being broke doesn't make you a failure.