Let’s Talk Money
Money and mental health are closely connected. Financial problems can increase the risk of mental health problems, while mental health problems can make it harder to stay employed or manage everyday finances. People with psychosis are particularly vulnerable in this respect, yet our understanding of their financial functioning remains limited.
This thesis provides a comprehensive overview of financial functioning in psychosis using large cohort studies, interviews with people with psychosis, family members, and healthcare professionals, assessments in people with recent-onset psychosis, and a review of recent financial support interventions. It distinguishes between financial situation (what a person has, including debts and financial satisfaction) and financial capability (what a person can do, including financial knowledge and financial decision-making).
The findings show that financial problems among people with psychosis are common and complex. Compared with the general population, they more often experience financial dissatisfaction, unmet financial needs, debts, limited savings, and reliance on social benefits. Difficulties in financial capability are already present in the early stages of psychosis. However, many financial abilities remain preserved, highlighting both vulnerabilities and strengths.
Effective, tailored financial interventions are currently scarce. Therefore, the central message of this thesis is: Let’s talk money! Finances should become a topic of assessment and conversation in mental healthcare. Early identification of financial difficulties and collaboration between mental health, social, and financial services can help prevent problems from escalating. This is important as addressing finances is not only about money, it is also about supporting recovery, dignity, and societal participation.