Half of Australian Women Experience Poor Mental Health in 2025, Report Finds

A recent comprehensive report highlights that mental health challenges remain a significant concern for Australian women, with over half experiencing issues like depression and anxiety in 2025. The study, conducted by the Liptember Foundation—Australia's only non-profit dedicated solely to women's mental health—reveals that 52% of women suffer from depression, while 44% face anxiety disorders. Body image concerns affect 39%, and sleep disturbances are reported by 30% of women. The report also identifies key triggers such as low self-esteem (50%), financial stress (45%), and sleep deprivation (40%), which profoundly influence mental health.

Data collected over four years from a representative sample of more than 7,000 women aged 18 to 70 shows persistent high rates of mental health issues, with nearly 25% experiencing severe conditions. Alarmingly, rates of body image distress and suicidal ideation have increased among young women aged 14-19, with body image issues rising from 48% in 2024 to 64% in 2025, and self-harm or suicidal thoughts increasing from 16% to 25%. Indigenous women are disproportionately affected, with 24% reporting PTSD, compared to 18% among non-Indigenous women.

Experts emphasize that women with specific health conditions like PCOS or endometriosis experience higher psychological distress, and many women (43%) do not seek support due to stigma, costs, or caregiving responsibilities. Professor Bronwyn Graham from The George Institute stresses the importance of gender-responsive mental health services that recognize biological and societal factors unique to women.

The report calls for urgent policy reforms, including specialized support services, better training for health providers, and accessible, affordable mental health care integrated into women's overall health services. Initiatives such as increased Medicare-funded sessions, national screening programs for expectant mothers, and guidelines for menopause care are proposed to better address the needs of women at various life stages.

"Women’s mental health should be a national priority," says Katrina Locandro, Research Lead at Liptember Foundation. "Investing in gender-sensitive approaches will not only improve individual well-being but also benefit families, communities, and the economy."

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