Money worries are now significantly impacting people’s relationships, according to new research released by Money Wellness to mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 (13–19 May).

The financial wellbeing platform, which offers free debt advice and ongoing support, surveyed customers to find out how financial stress affects personal wellbeing. More than a quarter (28%) of respondents said their relationship had suffered due to money worries – up from 23% in 2023.

Almost three-quarters (72%) said finances are the main cause of their stress, while 83% said they feel stressed most of the time. Debt, budgeting disagreements, and growing financial pressure were cited as common flashpoints for arguments between couples.

“Money stress isn’t just something you carry in your head, it follows you into your home, your relationships, and your sense of security,” said Sebrina McCullough, director of external relations at Money Wellness. “It’s one of the biggest relationship stressors we see. And in some cases, it’s leading to controlling behaviour and even financial abuse.”

From arguments to abuse: When financial control becomes coercion

The survey also shone a light on a darker issue. Some respondents reported that financial stress was leading to controlling behaviour in relationships. While not always recognised as such, limiting a partner’s access to money or controlling their spending can be signs of financial abuse, which is a form of domestic abuse.

“We’ve seen people in relationships where one partner, often under pressure themselves, begins to restrict what the other can spend,” said McCullough. “It might start with good intentions but can quickly turn into coercive control. Recognising those signs early and seeking help is vital.”

Other key findings from the 2025 Money Wellness survey include:

• 83% feel stressed most of the time
• 76% say stress is affecting their sleep
• 74% report an impact on their mental health
• 55% say stress affects all aspects of their life
• 28% say money stress is damaging their relationship (up from 23% in 2023)
• 22% say it’s affecting their performance at work

“When people feel safe and supported, they open up. And often, it’s the first time they’ve admitted how much their debt is affecting every part of their life. It’s time we broke the stigma around debt and recognised it for what it is: a mental health issue as much as a financial one,” concluded McCullough.