We know women still aren’t paid equally for the same work as men. We also know the valid concerns of female professionals are often dismissed as “being overly emotional.” But do we really have all the facts about women’s mental health, especially in the workplace?
The truth is, the situation is far more complex and damaging than we often realize. That’s why it’s crucial to dig into the data and better understand the unique challenges women face.
This month, in honor of International Women’s Day, we’re taking that deep dive. Because even in 2025, there’s still so much to learn and address.
Let’s unpack the subject in more detail.
Are There Gender Differences in Mental Health?
Yes, the research and data make it clear—there are significant gender gaps in mental health.
These findings show us that gender bias affects not only how mental health conditions are diagnosed and treated in healthcare but also how stigma and shame manifest differently between men and women. Additionally, they prove that mental health challenges impact each gender uniquely in the workplace.
7 Facts About Women’s Mental Health (And Why They Matter in 2025)
To truly grasp the differences in workplace mental health between men and women, we need to gather the key pieces of data that help us see the full picture. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important women’s mental health statistics available and explore why they’re still so relevant in 2025 and beyond.
1. Women Are Much More Likely to Experience Depression
While depression doesn’t discriminate, women are more prone to it, largely because of factors like hormonal changes, higher rates of trauma and abuse, and biological differences.
This is critically important in terms of male vs female mental health, not only because women are more susceptible, but because they tend to have more severe symptoms and longer durations of depressive episodes compared to men.
Whether it’s employers within the workplace, healthcare professionals, or spouses—everyone has a role to play in making sure women feel heard, validated, and supported when they’re facing low mood or prolonged sadness.
2. The Burden of Home Responsibilities Remains Heavier for Women
Did you know that, worldwide, women spend approximately 2.5X more time on unpaid domestic tasks than men? Or that here in Canada women spend more than 50% of their daily time on domestic chores compared to just 33% for men?
This discrepancy leads to burnout, resentment, and dissatisfaction for many women—especially since working women are still expected to shoulder the bulk of household responsibilities. With more women in the workforce than ever, this societal expectation often becomes impossible to keep up with.
3. Infertility Affects Women’s Mental Health More Than Men’s
Fertility challenges are another major factor that contributes to the gender gap in mental health. We know that women with infertility experience the same anxiety and depression levels as women with cancer, heart disease and HIV, which highlights just how detrimental it can be to overall well-being.
We also know that 50% of women undergoing fertility treatments report experiencing social stigma, while only 20% of men report similar feelings—underscoring how much more harmful the experience can be for women compared to men.
4. Postpartum Depression Isn’t Well-Supported at Work
It’s estimated that 13%–19% of new mothers experience postpartum depression, and in 38% of cases, they will remain depressed for up to 3 years after giving birth. These stats underline the need for long-term mental health support, so women can access therapy, counselling, and psychiatric care without the added stress of high out-of-pocket costs.
Yet, despite all the available data out there, only 1 in 5 employers actually step up to support new moms facing postpartum depression. That means the majority aren’t offering things like mental health services, paid leave, or flexible schedules—things that could make a world of difference during such a challenging time.
So, what does this mean for women moving forward? Unfortunately, it often translates to more pressure to perform at work while struggling to cope with PPD. It’s a trend that only makes things worse, leading to higher chances of burnout, absenteeism, or even leaving the job altogether.
5. Women’s Mental Health is Uniquely Affected by Menstrual Cycles
Biology has a big impact on women’s mental health, and that’s something we can’t ignore when talking about it. More specifically, studies show that approximately 20-40% of women report experiencing mood changes, including depression, related to their menstrual cycle.
For so many women, the emotional ups and downs of their cycle are part of their everyday experience, but because it’s not always discussed openly (especially in the workplace), it can feel like something to just “deal with.” Including menstruation in workplace wellness plans for women affirms their feelings aren’t just in their heads—resulting in more adequate support and inclusive workplace cultures.
6. Domestic Violence Severely Affects Women’s Mental Health
Intimate partner violence (also known as domestic violence) can never be overlooked when sharing mental health facts for women. It’s a serious issue with severely negative effects that last long after the relationship has come to an end or the abusive situation has subsided.
We must remember that 60% of women escaping abuse suffer from depression or anxiety as a result. They are also twice as likely to experience suicidal thoughts than women who have not been abused.
Ending the silence around domestic violence is still a work in progress. By prioritizing education across schools, workplaces, and communities, we can make a real impact in 2025 and well into the future.
7. When Life Gets Tough, Women Find a Way to Recover
Rounding out our list of facts about women’s mental health is a positive statistic: 80% of women who face significant mental health challenges, like depression, PTSD, or anxiety, develop positive coping strategies and resilience, allowing them to successfully manage their mental health and thrive.
More than any other fact or figure, this one is worth remembering, because it confirms what we all know women to be—smart, capable, and worthy of equal treatment in all facets of life. It also shows us that women are at the heart of progress, shaping the world around us in ways that impact all of us—whether it’s in the workplace, within our communities, or at home.
Empower and Uplift Your Female Employees. Offer Mental Health Training to Your Team in 2025.
Supporting women’s mental health at work isn’t just the right thing to do for them—it’s the right thing to do for your business. When women have the right tools to take care of themselves, they show up stronger and more inspired, ready to tap into their fullest potential.
Are you ready to lead the way? Start by investing in mental health training and join the movement toward a more supportive, successful workplace.