For some people, the upcoming holiday season is more of a pressure than a joy, because of the costs, but you probably won’t hear of those struggles from family and friends.  A Saskatchewan BDO Debt Solutions spokesperson, Jasmin Brown, says that’s because of the stigma around debt.

BDO’s recent survey found that 58 per cent of Canadians find conversations around financial issues challenging, even more challenging than talking about relationships or medical concerns and in Saskatchewan and Manitoba it’s 73 per cent.

If you are struggling financially, her advice is to reach out and talk to somebody. If there is a debt management problem, talk to a licensed insolvency trustee. There is a free confidential consultation where you can look at options for your situation. Brown adds if it is more about budgeting or beginning an emergency or savings account, talk to a bank or a financial advisor.

She says, “We see people struggling and we hear the things that they say about the shame, the embarrassment and how difficult it can be to reach out for help, but often making that first call is the hardest part.”