Finding the calm inside the Mental Health Storm: How the Cost of Living Crisis impacts stress and the soothing power of Massage Therapy.
- Andy B
- 2 days ago
- 9 min read
The past two years have presented significant financial challenges for households across the United Kingdom. A dramatic surge in the cost of living has become a pervasive and ongoing concern, touching nearly every aspect of daily life
This economic climate has created a direct and undeniable link to a substantial increase in stress levels experienced by a large portion of the population 1. As individuals and families grapple with rising expenses and financial uncertainty, it is crucial to explore accessible tools that can help manage the resulting stress and promote overall well-being. Among these tools, massage therapy emerges as a potential and evidence-based approach, offering a pathway to calm amidst the economic storm.
The Weight of the Crisis: How Finances Impact Mental Wellbeing.
Since 2021, the UK has witnessed a considerable escalation in the cost of living, with inflation reaching a peak in October 2022 at an alarming 11.1%. This sharp increase has translated into tangible financial pressures for households nationwide. The cost of essential items like food has risen, placing a strain on grocery budgets, and energy bills for gas and electricity have seen substantial hikes. Furthermore, elevated interest rates have increased borrowing costs, impacting mortgage holders and those in private rented accommodation. Compounding these issues, real household income has fallen by 4% over the past two years, leaving individuals with less disposable income to cover these rising costs.
The consequence of this economic crisis is stark: a significant portion of the UK population, approximately 20% or 13.4 million people, live in poverty, struggling to afford fundamental necessities such as food, warmth, and housing.
Data from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation in 2021/22 indicated that over 14.4 million individuals are living in poverty, representing more than one in five people.
Worryingly, households reported going without essential items and lacking sufficient funds for food.
These financial pressures have a direct and profound impact on mental well-being, leading to widespread stress, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness concerning personal finances.
Surveys have consistently highlighted the detrimental effect of the cost-of-living crisis on mental health. Research conducted for Time To Talk Day revealed that the mental health of 78% of Britons had been affected by the crisis, with this figure rising to 94% for individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions.
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) reported in their Public Perception Survey that 76% of respondents felt their mental health had worsened due to the current cost of living crisis, a significant increase from 53% in 2022.
This upward trend suggests a deepening impact on mental well-being over time.
It is important to acknowledge that the burden of this crisis is not shared equally across society. Low-income households are disproportionately affected by rising prices, and individuals from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds are also at a higher risk due to a greater prevalence of poverty within these communities.
Those already living with mental health conditions find their challenges exacerbated by financial strain. The anxieties surrounding financial insecurity can also limit people's ability to engage in activities known to protect and promote good mental health, such as getting adequate sleep, socialising with friends and family, pursuing hobbies, and engaging in regular exercise. Furthermore, for some, the need to cut costs has even led to the disconnection of essential services like broadband, further isolating individuals and restricting their access to online mental health support. The strain on mental health services has also intensified, with increased demand leading to longer waiting lists and difficulties in accessing timely support. As one member of the Diverse Experiences Advisory Panel poignantly stated, "The cost-of-living crisis and mental health is another pandemic. We have already had stress for two years, and now it's another two years; it's impossible to be healthy. You feel so hopeless that you want to give everything up".
Key Statistics on the Mental Health Impact of the Cost of Living Crisis in the UK (2022-2024).
Statistic | Source | Year(s) | Significance |
78% of Britons' mental health is affected by the cost-of-living crisis The impact of the crisis on mental well-being. | Time To Talk Day Survey (via Mental Health Foundation) | N/A | Highlights the widespread impact of the crisis on mental wellbeing. |
94% of those with existing mental health problems were affected | Time To Talk Day Survey (via Mental Health Foundation) | N/A | Shows the disproportionate impact on vulnerable individuals. |
76% reported worsened mental health due to the current cost-of-living crisis | BACP Public Perception Survey | 2024 | Indicates a significant increase from 53% in 2022, showing a worsening trend. |
1 in 6 (16%) adults experienced moderate to severe depressive symptoms | ONS Analysis | 2022 | Higher than pre-pandemic levels (10%), indicating a significant decline in mental health. |
6 in 10 (59-60%) UK adults experienced negative effects on their mental health | Money and Mental Health Institute, King's College London | 2022-2023 | Consistent findings across different surveys and time points emphasise the persistent negative impact. |
31% of adults felt anxious due to their financial situation | Mental Health Foundation Survey | 2023 | Shows the ongoing financial anxiety even after the peak of inflation. |
23% reporting problems sleeping due to worries about rising costs | King's College London | 2023 | Highlights a specific and significant impact on sleep, a crucial aspect of mental and physical health. |
Stress and Your Body: Understanding the Connection.
The body's response to stress is a natural and initially protective mechanism designed to help us deal with perceived threats. However, when these stressors become chronic and prolonged, as is the case for many facing the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis, this stress response can become detrimental to both physical and mental health. The process begins in the brain, where a small region called the hypothalamus triggers an alarm system when a threat is perceived. This system prompts the adrenal glands to release hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol.
Cortisol, often referred to as the primary stress hormone, plays a crucial role in this
response. It increases the sugar levels (glucose) in the bloodstream, enhancing the brain's use of this energy source and making substances available to repair tissues. At the same time, cortisol slows down bodily functions deemed non-essential in a "fight-or-flight" situation, such as immune system responses, digestion, reproduction, and growth processes. While this acute stress response is usually self-limiting, with hormone levels returning to normal once the perceived threat has passed, persistent stressors can lead to the prolonged activation of this system. This chronic activation and the resulting overexposure to cortisol and other stress hormones can disrupt nearly all of the body's processes.
The long-term health implications of chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels are significant. Individuals may experience increased anxiety and depression, digestive problems, frequent headaches, muscle tension and pain, sleep disturbances, weight gain, and difficulties with memory and focus. Furthermore, research suggests a link between chronic stress and an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, as well as promoting inflammation within the central nervous system. The sustained activation of the stress response keeps the body in a state of imbalance, which can wear it down at a cellular level over time.
In the face of these widespread stressors and their potential health consequences, it is essential to explore effective and accessible strategies for managing stress and promoting relaxation. Massage therapy offers a non-invasive and holistic approach that can be particularly valuable during challenging times like the current cost-of-living crisis. It is more than just a temporary indulgence; massage therapy has been shown to provide both immediate relief and cumulative benefits for mental and physical well-being. In the context of financial pressures that may limit access to other forms of support, massage can be an integral part of a comprehensive self-care plan, offering a tangible way to address stress's physical and emotional toll.
The Science of Touch: How Massage Eases Stress
The soothing effects of massage therapy are not merely anecdotal; they are rooted in physiological mechanisms that help to ease the body's stress response. One way massage helps is by leading to measurable reductions in stress hormones, most notably cortisol. Research has consistently demonstrated that massage therapy can lower cortisol levels by around 31%. This reduction in the primary stress hormone can impact overall well-being.
Furthermore, massage therapy has been shown to increase the mood-boosting neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine. Studies indicate an average increase of 28% in serotonin and 31% in dopamine following massage. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating mood and promoting happiness and contentment. Beyond the hormonal and neurochemical effects, massage can alleviate muscle tension and pain, which are common physical manifestations of stress, contributing to overall well-being. Massage also activates the body's relaxation response, which directly counters the effects of stress and anxiety. The pressure applied to pain receptors during a massage can stimulate the vagus nerve, leading to a more relaxed state, a slower heart rate, and lower blood pressure.
Beyond Stress Relief: The Holistic Benefits of Massage.
The benefits of massage therapy extend beyond just stress reduction, offering a range of holistic advantages for mental and physical health. Massage can reduce anxiety by promoting a sense of calm, alleviating tension, and inducing deep relaxation. It can also significantly improve sleep quality by increasing serotonin levels and promoting relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
For those experiencing physical tension due to stress, massage therapy can be particularly beneficial in alleviating muscle tension. It achieves this by increasing blood flow to the muscles, warming them, and helping to release knots and adhesions that can cause pain and stiffness. Furthermore, massage enhances blood flow and overall circulation, ensuring that muscles and tissues receive more oxygen and essential nutrients while also aiding in removing metabolic waste products and toxins. Beyond these benefits, massage therapy can also provide relief from various types of pain, including chronic pain conditions and headaches. Some studies even suggest that regular massage can improve mental clarity and focus by reducing stress and anxiety, and it may also boost the body's immune system. On an emotional level, massage therapy can lead to decreased feelings of worry, an increased sense of peace, an improved mood, enhanced self-esteem, and a greater awareness of one's body.
Choosing the Right Massage for Your Needs
There are various types of massage therapy, and understanding the differences can help individuals choose the most suitable option for their needs, particularly when
Seeking stress relief. Swedish massage is a widely recognised and popular choice for general relaxation and stress reduction. It typically involves gentle, long, flowing strokes, kneading, and circular movements designed to relax the entire body, improve circulation, and ease muscle tension. For individuals experiencing chronic muscle tension or seeking to lower cortisol levels specifically, deep tissue massage may be a helpful option. This type of massage targets deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using firmer pressure and slower strokes to release built-up tension and address areas of pain. Aromatherapy massage offers another avenue for stress relief by combining the therapeutic benefits of touch with the calming effects of essential oils. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood are often used for their relaxing and stress-reducing properties. Communicating your specific needs and preferences to a qualified massage therapist ensures a tailored and beneficial experience.
Expert Voices on Wellbeing During Economic Hardship.
The overwhelming consensus among mental health organisations underscores the significant mental health challenges posed by the cost-of-living crisis. The Mental Health Foundation anticipates that the impact on public mental health could be on a scale similar to the COVID-19 pandemic. The BACP's research reveals that a substantial majority of therapists are witnessing a decline in their clients' mental health directly attributable to cost-of-living concerns. This is further compounded by the fact that many individuals are having to cut back on essential activities that support their mental wellbeing, including therapy sessions themselves, due to financial constraints.
From the massage therapist, the importance of massage and holistic therapies as healing modalities during this crisis is paramount. Our therapist cannot directly alter the challenging economic environment, but they can provide a space for healing and relaxation, offering a temporary respite from the pressures and anxieties. As one therapist eloquently put it, "Even if I can take just an hour away from your misery and help you escape to a place of relaxation, then I have completed my job". Recognising the strain on traditional mental health services, the BACP has called for increased investment in more accessible and widely available mental health support across various settings to address the growing need.
Practical Ways to Prioritise Wellbeing (Including Massage).
While navigating the financial challenges of the cost-of-living crisis, prioritising wellbeing is crucial. There are several practical and often low-cost strategies that can
help manage stress. Connecting with community groups and social networks can provide valuable support and a sense of belonging. Practising mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring sufficient sleep are fundamental to physical and mental health.
When considering massage therapy as a tool for wellbeing, exploring affordable options can make it more accessible. Shorter massage sessions may be more budget-friendly but still beneficial. Even occasional massage sessions can offer relief from stress and contribute to overall well-being. Ultimately, prioritising self-care, even in small and manageable ways, is essential for navigating the challenges of this difficult economic period.
Conclusion.
The cost of living crisis in the UK over the past two years has had a profound and detrimental impact on stress levels across the nation. The financial pressures have led to widespread anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness, affecting individuals from all walks of life, with vulnerable people often bearing the heaviest burden. In these challenging times, it is beneficial to seek strategies for managing stress and promoting well-being. Massage therapy emerges as a valuable tool that can offer significant relief. Massage therapy provides a pathway to calm amidst the storm through its physiological effects on stress hormones and mood-regulating neurotransmitters, as well as having its broader holistic benefits for anxiety, sleep, muscle tension, and circulation. While navigating the financial realities of the crisis requires practical considerations, prioritising wellbeing, Massage Therapy or other affordable self-care strategies, remains crucial for maintaining mental and physical health.
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