Stress from debt 'costing GBP450m' (UK)

"An estimated 250,000 Londoners suffer from mental health problems as a result of debt, which is costing NHS London GBP450m a year, a campaign group said. London Health Forum said job cuts and money worries in recession resulted in 350,000 London GP appointments a year. Stress-related illnesses which could cause high blood pressure and heart attacks are also on the rise, it said. The forum urged councils and primary care trusts to "prescribe early debt advice" to Londoners. The forum's report, London Capital of Debt, said primary care trusts in London are currently spending £1.8bn a year treating patients with mental health issues, which is 26% more than the national average"