It is estimated that up to one in five people, or 57 million people, suffer from some form of mental health issues. The national household debt in the U.S. currently stands at around $17.3 trillion. Millions of people with mental health issues find themselves in significant debt, which can be very difficult to deal with.
Debt collectors and creditors have an ethical and legal duty to take mental health issues into account. Here are some important points to consider.
How debt collectors should communicate with vulnerable people
People with mental health issues may find communicating with debt collectors very tricky. Their health condition could mean that they are unable to work. Home visits and threatening letters can also worsen their health. Debt collectors must take this into account and make reasonable accommodations where possible.
First of all, debt collectors should take a more compassionate approach when dealing with vulnerable people. They should not make assumptions about an individual’s health condition, and communications should certainly not have a threatening tone.
Numerous charities and mental health clinics can support people struggling with debts, and debt collectors should provide information on such organizations. In some cases, debt collectors can work with mental health care providers to arrange a suitable repayment plan.
A non-judgmental and collaborative approach to collections can benefit both debtors and creditors. Debt collectors must be well-trained on how to deal with vulnerable individuals and what the legal process is.
If you feel that you have been treated unfairly by a creditor or collection agency, then it may be time to look into your legal rights.
