Nearly two in three women over 50 in the UK experience mental health struggles linked to midlife challenges such as menopause, relationship breakdowns, and changes in appearance, according to a new survey. The research, commissioned by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), found that 58% of respondents felt more anxious and overwhelmed by issues that previously would not have affected them.
The survey of 2,000 women across Britain highlighted common triggers including brain fog, bereavement, children leaving home, and financial pressures. Despite the prevalence of these issues, almost nine in ten affected women do not seek help, a phenomenon the BACP describes as an 'epidemic of silence'. Dr Lisa Morrison, BACP’s director of professional standards, policy and research, called the findings 'a sobering read', noting that many women feel compelled to hide their struggles.
Barriers to opening up included not wanting to burden others (41%), feeling the need to 'hold it together' (45%), fear of being misunderstood (27%), and adherence to a 'stiff upper lip' culture (24%). The consequences of this silence are severe: 59% reported trouble sleeping, 43% experienced weight changes, 38% avoided social events, and 28% withdrew from friendships.
Menopause was a particular concern, with brain fog (38%) and navigating menopause (34%) among the top pressures cited. The BACP’s Mindometer research has shown a significant rise in women seeking therapy for menopause-related anxiety. Janet Lindsay, chief executive of Wellbeing of Women, emphasised that hormonal changes can lead to anxiety, low mood, and irritability, and that a culture of dismissal often leaves women unsupported.
The BACP is launching a campaign to encourage midlife women to consider therapy, challenging the notion that a 'stiff upper lip' is beneficial. The findings come alongside a separate survey of 9,600 mothers across 12 European countries, which found that 71% of UK mothers felt overloaded and 47% experienced mental health challenges such as depression and burnout.
