A recent survey reveals that adults in the North East of England spend more time worrying about finances than those in other parts of the country, with significant implications for their well-being and daily lives. The study, conducted in June with over 2,000 UK adults, found that 65% of respondents experience financial concerns during a typical week, averaging 22 hours across the country. However, in the North East, this figure rises to 26.6 hours weekly.

The survey highlights that financial anxiety encompasses a range of behaviors, including checking bank balances repeatedly, concern over covering bills, and uncertainty about whether money will last until the next pay period. Notably, individuals in households earning less than £15,000 annually spend approximately 13 hours more each week worrying about money compared to those with incomes above £100,000.

Financial stress also leads to tangible lifestyle changes. Around 31% of participants reported cutting back on essentials such as food and heating due to money worries. Meanwhile, 28% admitted to checking their bank balance multiple times daily for reassurance. Conversely, 17% avoid looking at their balances altogether, and 13% refrain from opening bills, letters, emails, or banking apps to manage their anxiety.

Beyond immediate financial concerns, the impact extends into broader aspects of life. About 30% said money worries have prevented them from making future plans over the past year, and 28% felt their confidence around everyday spending had diminished, reducing their sense of control. The survey also found that 26% of respondents said financial stress made it difficult to relax during leisure time, while 21% reported it limited their social interactions with friends and family. Additionally, 17% felt unable to be fully present when spending time with loved ones because of financial anxiety.

Vix Leyton, a consumer expert involved with the study, emphasized that the true cost of money problems is often overlooked. She noted that the average of 22 hours spent worrying is not merely a statistic but represents countless moments of distraction—such as repeatedly checking a banking app or feeling uneasy during social activities due to financial strain. Leyton stressed that such concerns hinder future planning, reduce confidence, affect how people spend their free time, and alter interactions with close relationships.

For those struggling with financial stress, resources like budgeting tools available on the government-backed Money-Helper website may offer support to manage and alleviate some of these worries.