9 May 2025
Women juggle many responsibilities—careers, caregiving and the often unnoticed emotional labour that keeps many things running. All this while silently enduring physical and mental health changes. While some organizations are making strides in raising awareness, many other challenges that impact women’s health and progress remain unattended. The repercussions of unaddressed mental health challenges extend beyond individual women in the workplace, affecting teams, culture and the overall work environment. The time for employers to step up and address these issues is now.
Main challenges that women face in the workplace include:
- Lack of support for professional and personal needs
- Bias, barriers and workplace harassment
- A persistent pay gap – financial stress and job instability
- Physical and mental health challenges
Supporting women’s mental health is essential for retention, engagement and overall workforce wellbeing. In this blog, UASA discusses a few ways organisations and employers can adopt to support women in the workplace.
Inclusion and equity
Creating a workplace where women feel valued takes more than good intentions—it takes action. Provide training that addresses bias, gender norms, and microaggressions. Recognise that women’s experiences aren’t one-size-fits-all—factors like race, sexual orientation, and parental status all intersect with each other and shape the unique experiences of women at work. Organisations with female leadership don’t just check a diversity box—they also tend to perform well.
Invest in mentorship
Mentorship for women in the workplace is a powerful tool that fuels retention and engagement by fostering career growth. Employee resource groups (ERGs) provide crucial peer support, especially in navigating male-dominated spaces or career transitions. These initiatives support women and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive workplace, offering a beacon of hope for the future.
Ensure pay and promotion equity
Regular pay audits and adjustments build trust and reduce turnover. Leadership training, sponsorship programs, and pathways for career advancement ensure women in the workplace aren’t overlooked when it’s time to promote.
Support women’s physical and mental health
Many women in the workplace face health concerns without meaningful workplace support. Offering comprehensive medical benefits to support the physical health needs of all women is a helpful and tangible way to champion both physical and mental health. Access to a diverse provider network allows women to connect with a therapist or coach who understands their experiences.
The obstacles women face in the workplace are significant, but so is our capacity to overcome them. When leaders lead with empathy and equity, we create healthier, more inclusive workplaces for everyone. As we approach Mother’s Day, UASA encourages organisations and employers to prioritise women’s health, not just on special occasions, but every day. Women contribute positively to the workforce and society. It is up to us to protect their wellbeing and ensure that we shape the future of the workforce for the better.
Ref: www.lyrahealth.com www.uasa.org.za