In support of mental health awareness , we are asking are we doing enough to support clients with improving their mental health ?

When considering buying income protection and / or critical illness protection , most people think about the possibilities of being diagnosed with illnesses which are more visible and talked about , such as cancer , a heart attack or stroke . What many forget to consider is that a decline of mental health can be just as debilitating as any other illness or disability .

The rise in mental health conditions also means advisers will be facing into these clients more routinely , so how do we have these sometimes difficult conversations with clients to ensure we make them feel supported enough to disclose any previous conditions and ensure any future claim is paid ?

As the cost of living continues to be a challenge , it is key that we demonstrate how we are by the side of clients , supporting them facing into and overcoming these ongoing challenges .

The 2024 FCA Cost of Living report found that in the 12 months to January 2024 ,

DUE TO THE RISING COST OF LIVING , 43 % ( 22.7 MILLION ) SUFFERED ANXIETY OR STRESS , AND 20 % ( 10.4 MILLION ) HAD SUFFERED WITH THEIR MENTAL HEALTH .

Mental health remains the most common condition we see on insurance applications , with 21 % of applicants disclosing a mental health condition1 .

20 | PROTECTION ADVISER | AUTUMN 2024 |