The increased health inequalities and negative wellbeing impact of the cost of living crisis is “escalating” with every passing week, says Belfast-based Dr Alan Stout, British Medical Association Northern Ireland GP committee chair.
He said it is having a “huge impact” on people’s mental and physical health across all socio-economic groups but particularly in the most disadvantaged communities.
“Mental health is the big umbrella term and we refer to is as social stress as well. That is the reality of what it is, particularly in more deprived areas where there is low incomes, and lack of hope.”
