A Brighter Future for Women and Girls

Why Women’s Mental Health Can’t Wait

Women and girls in Australia face unique and often overlooked mental health challenges — with 1 in 2 living with a mental health condition, and 1 in 4 experiencing severe distress¹.

Behind these statistics are real people – women quietly carrying the weight of anxiety, depression, trauma and exhaustion while juggling the demands of work, care, motherhood and health.

Research shows that mental health challenges are emerging earlier, particularly in girls, and that parents and caregivers are carrying a growing mental load — often without the tools or support they need.

If we can help with increasingly common life challenges like low self-esteem, sleep challenges, work-life balance and lack of belonging as they arise, we can equip women with the right tools to thrive.

¹Liptember Foundation. (2025). Women's Mental Health Research 2025.

The Mental Load of Mums and Caregivers

The latest research shows women carry a disproportionate share of unpaid caregiving work² — a load that’s significantly affecting their mental and physical health. Smiling Mind’s 2024 State of Mind Report found that 85% of parents and caregivers are experiencing signs of stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. Nearly three in four (72%) feel overwhelmed every week, and 1 in 4 feel overwhelmed every single day.

We also know that parental mental health is closely linked to children’s wellbeing, and supporting the mental fitness of parents — particularly mums and primary caregivers — is one of the most meaningful ways we can support children, families and future generations.

That’s why we’re starting with two new learning pathways designed to meet women and caregivers where they are, with practical, accessible tools to help ease the mental load and rebuild a sense of balance and connection. This is just the beginning. We’re listening to the unique and often overlooked needs of women and girls — and we’re committed to responding with new content, improved experiences, and more accessible pathways that break down barriers to support.

²Ervin et al., 2023

Empowering Women and Girls to Thrive

Introducing new learning pathways designed specifically for women and caregivers

We know that digital tools are most effective when they’re personalised, engaging, and accessible, so we’re responding with new mental fitness programs designed to meet their unique needs — before things reach breaking point.

These new targeted, easy-to-use programs are available in the free Smiling Mind App to address key challenges of stress, burnout, and social connection, helping women and caregivers build mental fitness and wellbeing at their own pace.

We’re currently testing two pathways designed to support women’s unique needs. The Recharge Guide for Parents offers practical self-care strategies for rest, relaxation, and movement to enhance mental and physical wellbeing. The Connection Guide for Parents helps parents and caregivers combat stress and isolation by building skills for self-connection and strengthening relationships with family and friends.

Try them out and help shape the future of mental fitness for women and girls.