The start of a new year often brings a natural pause for reflection. For many people across Scotland, January represents more than resolutions about health or habits. It is a moment to take stock of finances, stress levels, and the future they want to build.
At Trust Deed Scotland, we believe a fresh start should be exactly that. It should be practical, informed, and free from judgement. To better understand the real experiences people have before and after seeking debt help in Scotland, we carried out a detailed December 2025 survey of 2,829 people who entered a formal debt solution. The results are powerful, honest, and in many cases deeply human.
What follows is not just a collection of statistics. It is a snapshot of how debt affects everyday life in Scotland and how seeking the right help can genuinely change things.
What you will learn in this article
- Why nearly half of people in Scotland wait a year or more before seeking debt help
- The emotional impact debt has on sleep, mental health, and family life
- The most common causes of problem debt in Scotland today
- Which types of debt cause the most stress
- How confidence and wellbeing improve after entering a formal debt solution
If you are unsure where to start, our Free Scottish Debt Guide explains all available options in plain English.
Why People in Scotland Research Debt Advice Before Asking for Help
Before reaching out for advice, most people want reassurance that they are making the right decision.
- 72% said they read Trustpilot reviews before seeking advice
This shows how important transparency, reviews, and real-life experiences are when someone feels vulnerable about money. People want to know they are not alone and that others in similar situations have been supported.
Word of mouth also plays a role.
- Almost 1 in 4 heard about Trust Deed Scotland from friends, family, or work colleagues
Debt is still something many people keep private. This makes independent research and online reassurance even more important.
With more than 12,000 reviews, Trust Deed Scotland have more 5 star TrustPilot reviews than all other Scottish debt solution providers combined.
Missed Mortgage or Rent Payments Before Seeking Debt Help in Scotland
One of the biggest fears around debt is losing your home. Our survey shows that while many people were struggling, most managed to protect their housing before entering a solution.
- 13%missed a mortgage or rent payment in the 12 months prior to entering their solution
Using Scotland’s mid 2024 population estimate of around 5,546,900 people, 13% represents roughly 721,100 individuals. This highlights how widespread financial pressure can be, even before it reaches crisis point.
How Long People in Scotland Wait Before Seeking Debt Advice
One of the most revealing parts of the survey looks at how long people delay before seeking advice.
- 19.1%asked for help straight away
- 35.2% waited up to one year
- 21.8% waited between one and two years
- 23.8% waited over two years
In total, 46% waited one year or more before seeking advice. That is almost half of all respondents.
There is some positive news here. This figure has improved year on year, down from 48.9%. This suggests people are starting to seek help sooner than they used to.
Shame and Self Reliance
When asked what put them off seeking help sooner, the responses were open and emotional.
- 61% felt ashamed or embarrassed about their debt
- 45% believed they could deal with the debt by themselves
Debt rarely begins with reckless behaviour. It often develops quietly through rising costs, changes in circumstances, illness, or relationship breakdowns. Despite this, many people blame themselves and carry the burden alone.
This makes one statistic particularly striking.
- 97% said they wish they had sought debt advice sooner
Only 3% said they would not change their decision. This clearly shows how valuable early advice can be.
If you recognise yourself in these survey results, speaking to an experienced debt adviser could help you take the next step with confidence.
Talking About Money Before and After Help
Money remains one of the most difficult topics for people to discuss.
Before seeking help:
- 72% did not feel comfortable talking about money
After entering a debt solution:
- 81% now feel more comfortable talking about money
This shift is significant. Confidence around money is not only about budgeting. It is about communication, understanding, and control.
The Impact of Problem Debt on Mental Health and Sleep
Debt does not stay on paper. It follows people into their daily lives.
- 91% lost sleep worrying about debt
- 90% said their mental health was negatively affected by debt
After entering a debt solution, the improvement is clear.
- 90% said their mental health improved
Removing uncertainty, pressure from creditors, and constant worry can have a profound effect on wellbeing.
Keeping Debt Hidden
Many people feel unable to speak openly about their financial situation.
- 88% hid their unaffordable debt from family or friends
This level of secrecy shows why confidential and supportive advice is so important. No one should feel they need to face debt alone.
Causes of Financial Difficulty
Financial difficulty is rarely caused by one single factor.
- 28.2% said a lack of control over their finances was the main issue
- 26.3% cited the cost of living
- Other causes included issues such as separation or unexpected life events
The cost of living crisis continues to place pressure on households across Scotland, often pushing manageable debt into something far more serious.
The Debts That Cause the Most Worry
Some types of debt create more anxiety than others.
- Credit cards worried 76.1%
- Personal loans worried 58.5%
- Overdrafts worried 22.9%
- Council tax arrears worried 15.3%
- Buy Now Pay Later worried 13.9%
- Payday loans worried 12.9%
Buy Now Pay Later is particularly topical, with regulation due to come into force in 2026.
How People Tried to Cope With Rising Costs
Before seeking help, many people made significant sacrifices.
- 66.4% cut back on socialising or hobbies
- 50.8% cut back on other spending
- 33.1% cut back on buying food
- 27.1% cut back on heating
- 20.4% borrowed money from family or friends
- 13.1% took on additional debt
- 23.8% worked extra hours or took a second job
Only 8.1% said they did not need to take any action.
Work, Family, and Responsibility
Debt has a significant impact on working life and family responsibilities.
- 55% worked longer hours or more than one job to manage their debts
- 82% worried about providing for dependents while dealing with problem debt
These pressures are particularly heavy for parents and carers trying to maintain stability at home.
Are Trust Deeds and Alternative Debt Solutions Effective in Scotland?
The most reassuring results come from those who have already taken action.
- 98% are satisfied with their chosen debt solution
- 94.1% feel more confident managing their household budget
These figures reflect regained control, clarity, and peace of mind. Many people find that a Trust Deed or the Debt Arrangement Scheme provides the structure and protection they need. You can learn more about how a Trust Deed works and whether it is right for you, or if an alternative debt solution best fits your needs.
A Fresh Start Is Achievable
The message from this survey is clear.
People do not regret getting help. They regret waiting.
A new year does not automatically solve financial problems, but it does provide an opportunity to take a different step. Whether someone feels overwhelmed, embarrassed, or unsure where to begin, confidential debt advice can make a real difference.
A fresh start is not about failure. It is about taking control and moving forward with confidence.