Hundreds of people are getting help every month for mental health problems caused by the impact of the recession.

Psychologists, counsellors and other staff from the Sussex Partnership NHS Trust have reported an increase in referrals of patients struggling with issues related to losing their jobs and other money worries.

Consultant clinical psychologist at the trust, Norma Timmermans, said people of all ages and incomes were being affected by the economic slump.

She said: “The effect of losing their job is having a knock-on effect on people’s relationships, as well as their self-esteem.

A young couple, for example, who may have got a mortgage that they were only just about able to pay each month, are now having serious financial problems because one of them has lost their job.

“Some people have developed drinking problems as they try to deal with what is happening.

“We are also getting a higher than normal number of referrals of suicide risk patients from hospital accident and emergency departments.”

The impact of money problems was highlighted by the case of Robert Howard, of Bedford Row, Worthing.

The 29-year-old jumped to his death from a footbridge over the A27 at Shoreham after visiting an accountant to discuss his debts.

An inquest in February 2008 heard Mr Howard had been worried about his finances and had been struggling to repay two loans.

Mr Howard had also been unhappy after moving to Worthing from Shoreham.

Ms Timmermans said even those who have managed to keep their jobs despite the economic downturn are having to deal with problems of their own.

She said: “Our clinics and centres report a large number of people who say they are feeling trapped.

“They may hate their job but can’t afford to risk looking for a new one.

“There are also those who feel under pressure to hit targets and perform well so they don’t find themselves among the latest redundancies.”

The trust is helping patients through a range of services including advice and help over the phone, workshops, one-to-one sessions and cognitive behaviour therapy.

Ms Timmermans said: “At the first stage over the phone we try to guide people in the right direction and find an organisation which can help them.

Our aim is also to help them to find employment and deal with their anxiety and self-esteem.

We are working to get people to not lose hope and get rid of those negative feelings.”

The partnership trust provides mental health services across parts Brighton and Hove and East and West Sussex.

It also deals with substance misuse services in Brighton and Hove and East Sussex.

Citizens’ Advice Bureaux have reported a sharp rise in calls in recent months.