Survey of over-50s women finds almost two in three struggle with mental health

Of those affected by midlife challenges such as menopause, nine in 10 do not seek help, therapists’ organisation says

Almost two in three women over 50 in the UK struggle with their mental health as they deal with menopause, relationship breakdowns and changes to their appearance, a survey has found.

Brain fog, parents dying, children leaving home and financial pressures can also trigger difficulties such as sleeping problems, feeling anxious or overwhelmed, and a loss of zest for life.

However, an “epidemic of silence” surrounds the challenges women face to their mental health in midlife, as almost nine out of 10 of those affected seek no help to cope.

The findings emerged from a survey of 2,000 women aged 50 and over across Britain, commissioned by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), which represents therapists.