More than one in 10 people (11%) surveyed in the UK are worried about applying for protection insurance as they are unsure about how to purchase or who to approach for advice, according to research from LifeSearch.
The problem is even bigger among those aged 16-24, rising to more than one in five (22%) of those surveyed.
But it is a different story for people over 55, with only 5% being unsure.
The survey was conducted by Censuswide which questioned 1000 nationally representative people living in the UK between 15 and 17 January 2025.
LifeSearch said the data shows that access to protection insurance is more concerning among younger people – a demographic who are already feeling mental health strains more than any other.
Meanwhile, younger people are proactively looking after their state of mind, with over one in five people surveyed (22%) saying that they currently use, or have used apps such as Headspace, UnMind or Wellmind within the past 12 months.
That increased to 42% for those aged 16-24, and 34% for those 25-24.
Justin Harper, chief marketing officer at LifeSearch (pictured) said: “Protection insurance is designed to provide people with peace of mind, for when the worst happens.
“Finding protection insurance can be daunting for many, but talking about it can ease the anxiety.
“Our research reveals that many hesitate due to uncertainty or fear of rejection. Talking to trusted friends, family, or experts like our LifeSearch advisers are safe places to start.
“On Time to Talk Day, our LifeSearch advisers are always ready to discuss options and help individuals get the protection they need.
“And for those who don’t want to talk just yet, then can explore their options and even buy cover online.
“Today’s evolving protection insurance criteria have evolved to better accommodate mental health challenges, and there are more options than many people may think.”