Rising living costs are taking a heavy toll on the nation’s health, with new research revealing that money worries are increasingly affecting both wellbeing and productivity among UK workers.
A study by insurer Cigna Healthcare International found that 70 percent of UK adults experience weekly strain linked to finances, and nearly half say rising prices are their biggest concern.
Researchers warn that economic pressure is contributing to widespread fatigue, poor concentration and physical illness, creating what they describe as a “multi-stress” landscape across the country.
Money Worries Affecting Health and Vitality
Cigna surveyed more than 11,000 adults across 13 countries. The findings show that British respondents report higher levels of weekly strain than the global average, with only three in ten saying they feel financially secure enough to support themselves.
Dr Stella George, the company’s chief medical officer, said financial anxiety was now emerging as a major health risk. “Experts are increasingly recognising how chronic pressure can contribute to a variety of significant, often overlooked health issues, which can lower vitality,” she said.
“The constant ‘fight or flight’ response caused by ongoing worries can disrupt sugar regulation and increase blood pressure, suppressing the body’s natural defences. Financial pressure isn’t just about debt; it’s showing up in physical and mental symptoms that businesses and individuals are only just beginning to grasp.”
The study found that more than half of those experiencing financial strain report disrupted sleep, while almost two in five struggle to focus at work. These effects, combined with uncertainty about the future, are contributing to lower energy, motivation and overall wellbeing.
Wider Impact on UK Workplaces
Wendy Sherry, chief executive of global health benefits at Cigna, said the findings had far-reaching implications for employers. “This is broader than personal struggle; it’s a societal challenge with considerable implications for our workplaces. When nearly half of the workforce is affected by the cost of living, the cost of inaction for businesses is immense — in presenteeism, absenteeism, and ultimately, lost talent.”
She said financial wellbeing should now be seen as a core business issue, not an employee perk. “Employers must act, recognising that vitality, particularly financial wellbeing, is a strategic imperative for business continuity and growth.”
Public health experts say financial pressure is already driving a rise in sickness absence and long-term health conditions. Government data shows that economic inactivity due to illness has reached record levels, with stress-related issues among the top causes. The health implications are not limited to the workforce — prolonged financial anxiety is linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and weakened immunity.
What Employers Can Do
Cigna advises that employers can play a vital role in supporting staff through financial wellbeing programmes, health education and a culture of openness about money and mental health. These steps, it says, can help protect both individual health and business performance.
Practical measures include:
Introducing financial education and guidance: Offering budgeting workshops and access to financial counselling to improve money management skills.
Reviewing benefits packages: Ensuring that health insurance, mental health services and flexible care options are accessible to all employees.
Encouraging balance and communication: Promoting flexible working and open dialogue about financial concerns to reduce the stigma around seeking help.
Occupational health specialists say financial wellbeing support should be integrated with wider health programmes, including mental health initiatives and employee assistance schemes. Early intervention, they add, can prevent personal concerns from escalating into prolonged absence or disengagement.
Dr George said employers must recognise that wellbeing is interconnected and that financial health underpins overall resilience. “Financial strain affects every aspect of wellbeing — physical, emotional and social. To build a thriving workforce, organisations need to treat financial security as part of their core wellbeing strategy.”