New report on mental health disparities between men and women in the workplace

We’re excited to announce the launch of our new report – Mind the gap: Mental health disparities between men and women at work. This report sheds light on the crucial differences in mental health experiences and challenges faced by men and women and what that means for the workplace.

Key highlights

• Experiences
  • Women tend to internalize emotions, leading to higher rates of depression and anxiety
  • Men often externalize emotions, resulting in higher rates of substance use disorder
• Underdiagnosis in men
  • Depression in men may be undetected due to different symptom manifestation and reluctance to seek help
• Biological and societal factors
  • Brain development differences and societal expectations contribute to mental health disparities
• Trends in Canada
  • Significant increases in mood and anxiety disorders among young women
  • Decrease in alcohol disorders among young men

Advice for employers

The report gives ideas to help you support mental health at work, such as:

• Training managers about mental health
• Telling workers about existing support
• Covering more mental health treatment
• Using new ideas like the Mental Health Coach and virtual care services

Download and read the report. By understanding gender differences in mental health and implementing targeted strategies, you can create a supportive environment that meets the unique needs in your workforce.

Questions? We’re here to help.

Please contact your Sun Life Group Benefits representative.