AXA’s fourth edition of the Mind Health Report[1] revealed that Filipinos exhibit a higher prevalence of mental health conditions, from mild to severe depression and stress, compared to the global average. The study, conducted in collaboration with IPSOS, involved a total of 16,000 respondents across 16 countries and territories in Europe, Asia, and America to identify mental health and wellness issues in global society to build solutions to mitigate them.
The AXA Mind Health Index categorizes an individual’s mental well-being into four distinct states: flourishing, representing the pinnacle of good mind health; getting by, describing those who may have some areas of good well-being but not enough to reach the state of flourishing; languishing, representing the absence of positive wellbeing; and struggling, reflecting the absence of wellbeing in most areas.
The study noted an increase in the number of Filipinos who are struggling, with a rise of 5 points to 14% overall while a third remains to be getting by (down to 35% from 39%). Comparatively, the Philippines has a higher percentage of individuals considered as flourishing, at 27% compared to the global average of 24%. However, there is a similar proportion of individuals experiencing severe levels of depression, anxiety, or stress compared to global figures. One out of five Filipinos is suspected of suffering from severe or extremely severe depression, anxiety, or stress, with rates at 21% in the Philippines compared to the global average of 23%.
A concerning trend in women’s mental health
Filipino women are disproportionately affected by mental health conditions, reporting higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to men. In 2023, for example, 13% of women experienced severe depression, compared to 8% of men; 6% of women experienced severe anxiety, while only 3% of men did; and 22% of women reported severe stress vs 16% of men.
Factors contributing to this include lower levels of self-acceptance among women, potentially exacerbating mental health triggers such as body image issues and gender discrimination. Moreover, the unequal distribution of household chores may leave women with limited time to prioritize their mental well-being through relaxation, healthy habits, and social interaction.
The statistics paint a stark picture of how different the experience of Filipino women may be compared to men in society. Behind these numbers lie deeply personal realities, as shared by individuals grappling with their mental well-being.
In Manila, a young woman in the corporate world faces the dual challenge of asserting herself in a male-dominated workplace and meeting traditional care-taking obligations at home. She said, “I find it hard to have to assert myself more since higher ups and other male colleagues don’t take me as seriously. On top of that, I have to rush home to cook and clean up at home since as the daughter in the family, I’m expected to be the care giver as well.”
Similarly, a woman in her mid-20s shares how her concern for personal safety in using public transportation adds to her stress. She said, “I’m extra paranoid with my safety when commuting daily as my only efficient option is a motorcycle ride-hailing service. It just feels extra scary being a woman.”
From workplace discrimination to common daily life concerns, these narratives underscore the urgent need for greater awareness, support, and resources to address the issues that could affect the mental health of women in the country.
A need for more intentional support
Mental health conditions are largely preventable with accessible and comprehensive support. This is why AXA leverages the Mind Health Study to equip individuals and businesses with the insights they need to foster positive mind health, contribute to effecting change in society, and ultimately become fit to flourish.
The latest findings further motivate AXA to enhance its continuous initiatives to make healthcare solutions and services more accessible to all. As a global leader in insurance and investment protection, AXA leads various initiatives for women’s health and financial wellness. AXA Philippines offers access to financial education and comprehensive medical and critical illness plans with benefits tailored to their needs. These plans include mental health counseling by licensed psychologists through its partner, Mind You.
“Prioritizing mental health isn’t just an option; it’s a necessity for navigating life’s challenges with resilience and clarity,” Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized. “Within AXA, we start by fostering a culture of inclusivity. Because in an environment where everyone is valued and has equal opportunities, people thrive. Beyond the organization, we aim to empower individuals with the tools and tailored fit protection plans that will help safeguard their mental well-being for a risk-ready future.”
For more information about AXA Philippines’ commitment to holistic well-being for women and for all, visit https://www.axa.com.ph/multimedia/articles/being-a-woman-shouldnt-be-a-risk.