A recent survey conducted in Singapore has revealed that approximately one in three middle-aged women exhibit symptoms consistent with anxiety, while around one in five display symptoms indicative of depression. The study, released on October 6, focused on women aged 40 to 59 and sought to better understand the mental health challenges faced by this demographic, which often balances work, caregiving, and family responsibilities.
The survey collected data from about 500 Singaporean citizens and permanent residents between August and November 2025. Results showed that 33.5 percent of respondents exhibited anxiety symptoms, and 21.8 percent showed signs of depression. Half of the participants reported having experienced a mental health concern at some point in their lives.
Among women who had previously faced mental health challenges, workplace pressures were identified as the most significant source of stress, cited by 54.3 percent of respondents, followed closely by family problems at 51.3 percent. Other notable stressors included romantic relationship issues (44 percent), unresolved trauma (43.4 percent), and caregiving duties (35.3 percent). The study highlighted the complex interplay of multiple stressors, emphasizing that mental health concerns rarely arise from a single factor.
The researchers also pointed to gendered ageism as a subtle but impactful stressor in the workplace. This form of discrimination, they noted, can restrict women’s career opportunities and affect social interactions with colleagues, contributing to psychological distress. Among employed respondents, those who perceived support from male colleagues reported higher life satisfaction, less stigma related to mental health issues, and a greater willingness to seek help.
Despite these challenges, the study found that women experiencing higher levels of psychological distress were less likely to seek professional or informal help from family and friends. Cost and accessibility emerged as significant barriers. More than half of respondents (53 percent) viewed mental health services in Singapore as unaffordable or highly unaffordable, while only 17 percent considered them affordable. Additionally, awareness of female-specific mental health services was low, with 58.4 percent unaware of specialized offerings such as the Women’s Mental Wellness Service at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital and the Women’s Emotional Health Service at National University Hospital. Over 90 percent reported never having used these services.
The survey also revealed a pervasive concern among participants about being a burden to others if experiencing a mental health disorder, with nearly 75 percent agreeing with this sentiment. This finding was noted as reflecting a tendency among midlife women to prioritize others’ needs over their own wellbeing.
When asked about preferred types of mental health support, respondents prioritized peer support, counselling, and workplace mental wellness programs. Although most did not express shame about seeing a therapist—62.9 percent disagreed that it would make them feel inadequate—the gap between willingness to seek help and actual utilization underscores ongoing challenges.
The findings will inform advocacy and public education efforts by the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations (SCWO). SCWO president Seow Yian San emphasized that the mental health impacts of juggling multiple roles often go unrecognized, despite the heavy demands placed on women in midlife.