The lack of support affects women across their various life stages
The mental health support for nearly half of Canadian women was found to be lacking, even as more of them are experiencing heightened mental distress in the current political and economic climate, according to a new report released by GreenShield and Mental Health Research Canada.
In the 2025 Women’s Mental Health Report, about 47% of women have admitted to an increased state of anxiety because of the pressures caused by the state of Canadian politics and economy. Women who were between the ages of 16 and 24 also reported higher anxiety compared to men within the same age group.
While women who have children that they care for were more likely to seek mental health support, more than 50% of Canadian women were admittedly unprepared for menopause and 60% of them were unaware that conditions such as anxiety, depression, and memory issues were linked to this.
“Women are telling us—through data and lived experience—that mental health care in Canada is falling short. There is an urgent need for inclusive, accessible mental health care that supports women through every life stage,” said Mandy Mail, executive vice president, head of GreenShield Cares.
Mental Health Research Canada CEO Akela Peoples pointed out the importance of supporting women who were suffering from mental health problems.
“When we support women, we are often also supporting families and communities. It is important in addressing mental health that we provide unique and tailored support appropriate to those in need. Women are self-reporting a need for help – we must listen and respond – to ensure they have access to the help they need, and also to ensure our families and communities are supported,” said Peoples.
The 2025 Women’s Mental Health Report was co-created with the insights of community organizations such as Black Mental Health Canada, Black Women's Institute for Health, the Canadian Women's Foundation, Menopause Foundation of Canada, YWCA Canada, and SE Health.
