Nielsen-backed report finds 80% of women feel employers aren’t doing enough to support womens’ mental health at work

Liptember Foundation’s annual Women’s Mental Health Research Report delivers crucial insights into Australian womens’ mental health

Nielsen Pacific MD speaks with The Liptember Foundation’s Head of Strategy & Operations, Katrina Locandro about the positive impact of data on womens’ health

Sydney – 15 July, 2024 – Liptember Foundation’s annual Women’s Mental Health Research Report has revealed that the most common mental health issues facing Australian women, regardless of age, are depression (46%), anxiety and generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) (41%), followed by body image issues (29%). 

The extensive research, undertaken by Nielsen custom research, also found that 25% of Australian women are likely living with a severe disorder, echoing the findings from research done by the Liptember Foundation in the prior 2 years.

It also highlights a major gap in how employers are seen to be supporting womens’ mental health in the workplace, with 80% saying, “…there’s more employers can do”. 

Meanwhile, only 45% of working women say they’re aware of the mental health services offered by their employer.

In addition, the research shows that while 54% of women say they’re currently living with mental health issues, only half of them are seeking professional help – largely due to barriers such as financial constraints, fear of social judgement, and a lack of awareness regarding available resources. 

The research also showed that 71% of women feel there isn’t a significant enough acknowledgment of mental health issues, confounded by a persistent stigma associated with seeking help, highlighting the need for better education on the issue.

Other important findings include:

• A higher proportion of those affected with a severe disorder are likely to be under 39 years old

The 50-59 age group is most affected by depression (50%) and psychological distress (20%) compared to any other age group, where factors such as menopause, ageing, physical ailments resulting in

•  low confidence, financial pressures and lack of societal acceptance serve as significant triggers

A notable decrease in body image issues across all ages (currently 29%), compared to 38% in 2022. There has also been a directional decline in figures for societal expectations, unrealistic ideals

• of body image, and media pressure

CEO and Founder of Liptember, Luke Morris said: “Of remarkable note, there is a major gap in how employers are supporting womens’ mental health in the workplace. 80% feel there’s more employers can do, and only 45% of employers are known to offer mental health services. There has been a persistent blind spot when it comes to women’s mental health and the lack of research, programs, and support focused on women’s mental health is something we’re committed to improving.”

Nielsen Pacific Managing Director, Monique Perry, added: “Nielsen is proud to have worked with the Liptember Foundation over the last three years to deliver custom research with potentially life-changing impact. This year’s report highlights a need for greater awareness, education, and resources for all women, regardless of their life stage.

While data and insights can reveal unpleasant truths, they provide the opportunity to act in an informed way, ensure resources are directed where they need to be, make meaningful change, and improve the quality of life for all Australian women.”

To better understand the state of women’s mental health in Australia, download your free copy of the full report here.