Financial concerns are taking a toll on the mental health of Atlantic Canadians according to a new poll by insolvency firm MNP Limited.

The poll shows that residents of the Atlantic provinces are more likely than any other province to say that they regret the amount of debt they’ve taken on—52 per cent, an increase of two points from the last quarter.

One quarter of Atlantic Canadians polled say that over the last year they’ve had to take money from savings, home equity, an RSP or other means to pay debt or meet day-to-day expenses.

Meanwhile, Atlantic Canadians are also more likely than any other region of the country to say they have made only the minimum payment on their line of credit at 26 per cent, that’s a 12 point increase from 2021.

Local Licensed Insolvency Trustee with MNP, Greg Gosse says that financial stress is taking a toll.

He says many Atlantic Canadians, including those in this province, admit to feeling increased anxiety and stress. He says embarrassment means people are less willing to discuss their situation with others, leading to isolation.

Those struggling with debt are encouraged to speak with a licensed professional to see what options are available.