Money worries blamed for rise in health problems

FINANCIAL problems are sending an increasing number of patients to the doctor's waiting room, as stress triggers sleep disorders, diet problems and impotence, writes Laura Harding.

A survey released yesterday claims concerns about finances and job security mean more people are suffering from such illnesses.

Patients under 30 appear to be suffering the most, and many doctors have prescribed anti-depressants to help them cope. More than three-quarters of GPs surveyed said they had seen an increase in the number of patients showing symptoms of stress or depression over the past 18 months.

Dr Peter Swinyard, chairman of the Family Doctor Association, said: "Money worries have always been a major cause of stress-related illness, but there is no doubt the events of the past 18 months have exacerbated the effect."