Cost of living pressures are making women’s mental health in Australia much worse, according to a new study that found 59 per cent of women said it was negatively impacting their mental health.
The study of almost 5000 Australian women aged 14 and over was released today by the Liptember Foundation. It shows that 1 in 3 women are not seeking the help they need for their mental health because they cannot afford it, with young and middle-aged women in regional areas impacted the most.
Concerningly, 1 in 2 Australian women are currently facing a mental health issue, with almost one quarter facing a severe form of mental disorder. A higher proportion of those with a moderate or severe disorder are likely to be under the age of 39.
Depression affects 45 per cent of Australian women, the majority of whom are over the age of 50. Anxiety also affects 44 per cent of women, according to the study.
How are biological factors and experiences affecting mental health?
The research has also provided insights into how biological factors and experiences can be triggers for mental ill health in women.
It found 55 per cent of women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) suffer from depression, as do 53 per cent of women undergoing menopause.
The study shows pregnancy loss also has a massive mental health impact, with 60 per cent of women who have had a stillbirth or miscarriage experiencing depression, 53 per cent experiencing anxiety and 31 per cent experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
In younger women, 54 per cent of those going through puberty are experiencing body image issues.
Almost a quarter of women with vaginal issues like bacterial vaginosis, vaginitis, uterine fibroids, and vulvodynia will have social phobias.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is also having a significant impact on women’s mental heath, with 1 in every 5 women with condition struggling with suicide and self-harm.
Psychologist Madhavi Nawana-Parker, who is a member of the Liptember Foundation’s mental health advisory panel, said it is important to recognised the gender gap that exists in mental health.
“There is no doubt that mental health is important for all genders, but Liptember Foundation is doing important work spotlighting the mental health gender gap,” Nawana-Parker said.
“In my clinic I often observe that the unique biological challenges and experiences women face in their lifetime can be a trigger for mental ill-health.”
Nawana-Parker said the research cements that the hormonal fluctuations women face during puberty, PMDD, menopause and pregnancy can trigger a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety and PTSD.
On the impact of the rising cost of living, Liptember Foundation CEO Luke Morris said: “Financial pressures are worsening women’s mental health yet at the same time, a growing number of those who suffer from mental health issues say they can’t afford to seek the help they so desperately need”.
“With no ease to the cost of living pressures in sight, sadly, we are likely to see women’s mental health suffering as a result in the coming years.”