In Rotterdam, one in six households experiences financial difficulties or debt. People with a low income or without employment are particularly at risk. Long-term financial stress can negatively affect mental and physical well-being and is associated with depressive symptoms, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. It can also make it more difficult to maintain healthy behaviours, such as quitting smoking. Financial concerns are therefore not only an economic problem, but also a social and public health issue.
Shame, stigma, and uncertainty can prevent people from discussing financial concerns or seeking help. This study therefore examined whether a brief and accessible intervention could help people in a lower socioeconomic position take a first step.
A video and an interactive cardtool
The intervention consists of two consecutive components: an online animated explainer (called Steffie: geldzorgen.steffie.nl) and a cardtool. Both use simple language to ensure that they are easy for everyone to understand.
Steffie explains financial concerns in a calm and relatable way and shows how common they are. It also emphasises that experiencing financial stress is normal and that people are not alone. The aim is to reduce shame and make it easier to discuss the topic.
Participants then use a cardtool consisting of a placemat and cards containing questions, tips, and example sentences. The tool is also available online. Step by step, they reflect on their own situation and select cards that resonate with them, helping them gain insight into their thoughts and feelings. They then choose practical tips for starting a conversation about financial concerns. Finally, they select one small, achievable step they would like to take, such as starting a conversation or using a suggested sentence to bring up financial concerns.
What did we find?
Steffie and the cardtool increased participants’ motivation to discuss financial concerns and led to more positive expectations about the personal and practical benefits of doing so. Participants also reported a stronger intention to start conversations about financial concerns. Importantly, however, we found that the intervention was more effective among people who experienced lower levels of stigma.
What are the implications?
A brief and accessible intervention can help people discuss financial concerns before their problems become more severe. The intervention does not replace professional support, but it may lower the threshold for seeking help or participating in a more intensive programme. Future versions could place greater emphasis on reducing stigma.