An increasing number of Atlantic Canadians are feeling pessimistic about their financial situation, according to the latest MNP Consumer Debt Index.

Greg Gosse, a local Licensed Insolvency Trustee with the company, says 51 per cent of respondents say they are within $200 of not being able to manage their debts.

That number is up from 42 per cent the last time the survey was released in October.

Gosse says about 30 per cent of people are already in a situation where they can’t pay their debts on time.

He says the numbers are concerning but notes that people do have options available to them, such as calling a Licensed Insolvency Trustee. There are also options on the internet, but Gosse warns that while there are very good debt counsellors, people should ensure they are getting services from someone who is licensed and regulated first.