Fairer Welfare Systems for Better Mental Health: A New State of Mind

by Katie Pybus

Overview

Our knowledge and awareness of mental health has never been greater. Yet little progress has been made in addressing a key cause of population mental ill-health: financial insecurity.

This book argues that tackling inequalities through the social security system could offer a new focus to help stop our current trajectory of worsening poverty and distress.

Featuring original research and focusing on three key areas: prevention, support and investment, it sets out how well-designed social security systems could play a central role in our collective mental health and discusses the changes that are needed to get there.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781447371519
Publisher:	Bristol University Press
Publication date:	07/01/2026
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	150
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x (d)

About the Author

Dr Katie Pybus is Lecturer in Mental Health at the University of York and a registered mental health nurse.

Table of Contents

Introduction

1. Money on the Mind

2. ‘Constantly on Edge’

3. ‘Unseen Injuries’

4. ‘Sick Note’ Culture

5. A Fairer Welfare System

6. Investing in The Future

7. A New State of Mind

Conclusion

Afterword: The Budget

Editorial Reviews

Katie Pybus skilfully exposes the gaping holes in our social security net through which many people with mental ill-health fall and makes a compelling case to rethink this failing system.” Jed Boardman, Institute of Psychiatry and Centre for Mental Health

From the Publisher