High levels of personal unsecured debt are causing depression, anxiety, problem drinking and suicidal thoughts among increasing numbers of people in the area.

That’s the shocking conclusion outlined in a new report by a city body which works to improve health and tackle inequality.

The Glasgow Centre for Population Health (GCPH) warns the evidence paints a concerning picture of many households and families “running on empty” and using credit cards and loans just to get by.

The GCPH report, published to coincide with Challenge Poverty Week, says evidence is clear those with unsecured personal debt are more likely to have mental disorders.

It says: “The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) estimates 4.5 million borrowers in the UK experience ‘financial distress’ and have difficulty repaying their debt.

“Evidence is clear those with unsecured, personal debt are more likely to have mental disorders including depression, anxiety, problem drinking and even suicidal thoughts.”

Chris Harkins, senior public health researcher at the GCPH and author of the report, said: “The rising level of UK debt is unprecedented. However, it has not received the attention it should, perhaps because other key economic markers such as house prices have performed well.

“The rising costs of living, reduced social security, stagnating wages and rise in precarious employment and zero-hours contracts have severely stretched household finances – creating the need for this form of credit.”

Increasingly this form of debt is used to pay for food, rent and essential household utilities, as many people and families use debt “to make ends meet”.

Lorna Kelly, head of primary care support and development at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, added: “This is an important report which highlights the real impact of unsecured personal debt on mental and physical health and the growing challenge which individuals and families face.”