Education

Leadership Coaching for Women Dealing with Mental Health Challenges

Professional women are increasingly occupying leadership positions across various sectors, bringing valuable experience and insight in their roles. However, many women face challenges related to mental health, which can affect their performance, job satisfaction, and career trajectory. Research shows that mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, are prevalent among women, often exacerbated by workplace demands.
Organized, professional and focused woman working

%

The proportion of women who believe that access to mental health resources at work would make them feel more comfortable discussing mental health issues (Deloitte, 2023).

%

The percentage of women who feel comfortable discussing mental health issues in the workplace, a significant decline from 43% in previous years (Deloitte, 2023).

%

The proportion of women reporting feelings of burnout related to workplace stressors (Mental Health Commission of Canada, 2021).
Mental health challenges can impact self-efficacy, productivity, absenteeism, and retention rates. Colleagues may find it difficult to maintain engagement and motivation in their roles, which can ultimately affect organizational performance. By addressing mental health in the workplace, organizations can create a more supportive environment that encourages women to thrive.
Discussing women's health at work

The Cost of Mental Illness

The economic burden of mental illness on the workforce is profound. Research indicates that mental health issues lead to an estimated $51 billion in lost productivity annually in Canada. Employees experiencing mental health challenges are more likely to take time off work, resulting in absenteeism and decreased productivity.

1 in 4

The proportion of employees who will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime, contributing to a higher turnover rate and associated costs for employers.

1.62x

The estimated return on investment for every dollar spent on mental health interventions in the workplace, demonstrating the potential benefits of supportive measures.

Despite these challenges, women demonstrate extraordinary resilience and commitment, often continuing to excel even when their struggles go unnoticed.

Employers who neglect the mental health of their employees may face high turnover rates and lost expertise, ultimately affecting their bottom line.

References

  1. Deloitte. “Deloitte’s Women at Work Report Reveals Signs of Progress but Much Work Remains.” (2023). Deloitte.
  2. Harvard Business Review. “How Organizations Can Support Women’s Mental Health at Work.” (2023). HBR.
  3. Mental Health Commission of Canada. “The Mental Health of Women in Canada.” (2021). MHCC.
  4. Canadian Mental Health Association. “Mental Health in the Workplace: A Guide for Employers.” (2023). CMHA.
  5. Mental Health Commission of Canada. “Workplace Mental Health: A Global Perspective.” (2021). MHCC.
  6. Deloitte. “Mental Health Programs and Worker Productivity.” (2021).
  7. Mental Health Commission of Canada. “Making the Case for Investing in Mental Health in Canada.” (2021).

Disclaimer: This one-pager offers a summary of key topics in women's health, supported by research data and sources. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not replace detailed academic studies. For more comprehensive and detailed insights, please refer to the original research cited.