Women's Status and Well-Being in the Workplace
- Mar 9, 2025
- 5 min read
Written by Shona Kydd, Addiction and Trauma Therapist
With more than ten years dedicated to the fields of trauma and addiction, Shona stands out as a fervent advocate for open discussions about mental health. Her mission revolves around dismantling the misconceptions surrounding addiction and emphasising the importance of addressing trauma with both creativity and compassion.
Mental health struggles can affect anyone, but studies indicate that women are especially at risk. Various factors, including workplace dynamics, societal norms, and biological influences, create distinct challenges for women in their professional lives.
Gender perspectives in performance evaluation
In workplace professional assessments, it has become increasingly apparent that the criteria used to evaluate individuals can vary significantly based on gender. Research indicates a notable trend: women are often assessed primarily on the tangible contributions they make to their organizations. This performance appraisal method emphasizes the results of their efforts, such as project completion, teamwork, and measurable achievements.
Conversely, men frequently encounter evaluations that focus on their potential rather than their current output. This potential-based assessment allows for a broader interpretation of an individual’s capabilities and future contributions, often leading to advancement opportunities that may not be as readily available to their female counterparts.
This disparity highlights the underlying biases that influence workplace dynamics and career progression. When women's achievements are scrutinized through the lens of immediate contribution, it may inadvertently limit their opportunities for growth and recognition. Meanwhile, assessing men with an eye toward future potential can foster an environment that overlooks the accomplishments of women.
Understanding these differences in evaluation practices is crucial for fostering a fair and equitable workplace while taking responsibility for the well-being of women. Organizations must strive to implement more balanced appraisal systems that recognize both the current contributions of all employees and their potential for future success, regardless of gender. By doing so, they can create a more inclusive environment that values diversity and encourages individuals to thrive based on their unique strengths and capabilities. This, in turn, would shed light on the mental and physical strain placed on women who feel they are navigating obstacles within their careers and society.
The pressure of expectations on women
Women frequently make choices and navigate challenges under a microscope, with societal expectations often framing their actions through the lens of being "role models." This scrutiny can lead to feelings of shame and guilt, creating an environment that pits women against one another instead of fostering solidarity.
The weight of these expectations is particularly pronounced for women from minority backgrounds. They are often seen as representatives not just of their gender but also of their entire ethnic or racial communities. This dual burden can be overwhelming, as they may feel compelled to embody the hopes and ambitions of those around them while also striving to achieve personal success.
Such pressures do not serve women well; rather, they hinder progress and contribute to a culture of competition rather than collaboration. It is essential to acknowledge these dynamics and work toward a more supportive environment that celebrates individual journeys without imposing unrealistic standards.
By fostering a sense of community and understanding among women, we can alleviate some of the burdens imposed by societal expectations and encourage a more inclusive dialogue. Empowerment should stem from shared experiences and mutual support, allowing all women to thrive without the fear of judgment based on their decisions and setbacks.
Women's mental health at work
According to a survey by Bloom UK, over 93 percent of women have faced mental health issues tied to an unhealthy work-life balance. This problem is even more pronounced for women from diverse backgrounds and minority communities, who report higher levels of anxiety, depression, and overall psychological distress.
Globally, women are more prone than men to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that nearly 41.9 percent of disability caused by mental illness in women is due to depressive disorders, compared to 29.3 percent in men. Women from ethnic minority groups often face additional challenges, including racism and sexism, which exacerbate financial stress, multiple caregiving roles, and various health issues. These factors all increase their risk for mental health problems.
Transgender women and nonbinary individuals continue to face serious mental health hurdles due to stigma and discrimination. Research indicates that almost 48 percent of transgender adults have contemplated suicide within the past year, underscoring the pressing need for more inclusive mental health resources.
The gendered perspective on mental health
Both sex and gender significantly impact how mental health issues manifest. While sex refers to the biological differences between males and females, gender relates to social expectations, roles, and an individual's expression and identity.
The combination of genetics and personal experiences shapes how these issues develop. Research shows that common disorders tend to affect women disproportionately, including:
Depression and anxiety. Often triggered by job-related stress, caregiving responsibilities, and financial worries.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Frequently associated with experiences of sexual harassment or discrimination at work.
Eating disorders. Influenced by societal beauty ideals, stress, and other mental health challenges.
Workplace factors affecting women's mental health
Several workplace elements contribute to women's mental health struggles:
Pay inequality and career obstacles. Women, particularly those from minority backgrounds, often earn less than men in the same roles while also being underrepresented in leadership positions.
The double burden of caregiving. Many women balance work with caregiving responsibilities, leading to heightened stress levels.
Workplace harassment and discrimination. Instances of microaggressions or bias can create an unwelcoming atmosphere that negatively impacts well-being. A McKinsey report from 2023 found that women experiencing microaggressions at work were three times more likely to consider quitting their jobs and four times more likely to feel burned out.
Health concerns. Issues related to menopause, menstrual cycles, or postpartum depression are often overlooked in corporate policies but have a significant impact on women's well-being.
How workplaces can help support women's mental health
When companies focus on improving women's mental well-being, it boosts morale across the board. Here’s how they can foster a more supportive environment:
Tackle workplace harassment. Establish clear anti-harassment policies, encourage employees to speak up about incidents without fear of backlash, and offer confidential support for those impacted.
Invest in cultural diversity training. Implement diversity programs aimed at educating staff about biases and structural inequalities. Regular training helps build a more respectful workplace culture.
Close the gender pay gap. Perform annual pay audits to identify any wage discrepancies between genders. Having transparent salary practices ensures equal pay for equal work.
Encourage flexible work options. Allowing remote work or flexible schedules can help women effectively juggle their careers alongside caregiving responsibilities.
Enhance access to mental health resources. Offer comprehensive benefits covering therapy services and wellness programs. Consider providing designated mental health days so employees can focus on self-care.
Recognise women’s unique health needs. Company policies should reflect awareness of women's health. Establishing support groups or medical leave options can assist women facing these challenges.
It’s crucial to recognise the unique obstacles women encounter regarding their mental well-being at work, stemming from systemic inequalities as well as traditional workplace cultures designed around male experiences. By addressing these concerns through fair policies, equitable pay structures, and dedicated mental health support systems, businesses can cultivate environments where everyone, regardless of gender, can flourish.
Focusing on women's well-being isn’t just about doing what’s right; it is essential for fostering a healthier workforce overall.
Read more from Shona Kydd
Shona Kydd, Addiction and Trauma Therapist
Shona brings more than ten years of dedicated experience in the realms of trauma and addiction. She is deeply committed to fostering conversations about mental health, challenging the misconceptions associated with addiction, and emphasizing the importance of a compassionate and innovative approach to healing trauma and anxiety. As a therapist, Shona employs a holistic and integrative methodology, utilising a diverse set of skills that empower individuals to navigate both historical and current obstacles while guiding them toward a brighter future.
