What to Do When Debt Collection Feels Overwhelming

Dealing with debt and debt collection is tough. It can feel even harder if phone calls and letters make you anxious. 

Many people with mental health challenges find traditional communication methods difficult, but there are ways to manage debt without feeling overwhelmed.

Why Debt Collection Can Feel So Hard

When you owe money, debt collectors might contact you through phone calls, letters, or emails. 

If you struggle with anxiety, this can feel really stressful. 

Citizens Advice shared that half of people with debt problems also have mental health issues. It’s no wonder why communicating with creditors can feel like too much.

Many people in debt are dealing with multiple creditors at once. 

In fact, Citizens Advice found that 53% of their debt clients have more than four debts, with some people managing over 10 different debts. 

This means keeping track of all the letters, calls, and payment plans can quickly become overwhelming.

Common Challenges When Dealing with Debt Collectors

• Anxiety about phone calls: Many people find it hard to pick up the phone, especially when talking about money.
• Overwhelm from letters and emails: It can be tempting to avoid opening post, but this can lead to missed payments and more stress.
• Struggling to ask for help: Reaching out to creditors or support services might feel impossible when your mental health is low.

Practical Steps to Make It Easier

1. Know What to Expect: When a debt collector contacts you, they must treat you fairly. They should not threaten you or make you feel uncomfortable.
2. Ask for Different Communication: If phone calls or letters feel too much, ask your creditor to communicate through email or a messaging service instead.
3. Use IE Hub’s Budgeting Tool: With IE Hub, you can securely share your financial situation with creditors online. This can help reduce the need for difficult phone calls or letters.
4. Set Boundaries: If calls make you anxious, you can ask debt collectors to only contact you at certain times or through specific methods.
5. Get Support: Organisations like Citizens Advice can help you understand your rights and support you through the process.

Budgeting When Communication is Hard

If communicating about debts is difficult, budgeting tools can help you manage your money without needing to talk to anyone. With IE Hub, you can:

• Build a clear picture of your income and outgoings.
• Share this information directly with creditors online.
• Avoid uncomfortable phone calls or face-to-face meetings.

How IE Hub Can Help

At IE Hub, we know that managing debt can be stressful, especially if you struggle with communication. Our free tool helps you budget, share your financial information securely, and make payment plans without the need for stressful conversations.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, visit IE Hub to get started. We’re here to help you find a way forward at your own pace.

Remember, you deserve support, and it is okay to ask for it.