"Our data shows a worrying gap between men experiencing stress and those accessing support."
- Mike Farrell - LV=
The latest LV= Claims Report has revealed a significant gender gap in the use of mental health support, with the aim of highlighting the role that protection policies can play in supporting men’s wellbeing.
According to the report, which surveyed 4,000 nationally representative UK adults in September 2025, demand for mental health support with access to remote psychological services rose by 61% when compared to the previous year. Despite this overall increase, those who identify as men only accounted for 43% of users, compared to 57% of women.
New data from LV’s Wealth and Wellbeing research also highlights ongoing challenges around mental health. In the last three months leading up to September 2025, 33% of men reported feeling stressed or anxious, 28% reported exhaustion and one in four (equating to 8.6 million men) expressed concerns about money.
Despite this, only a small portion sought professional support: 6% in person and 4% online, while the Report also showed that nearly three quarters (74%) of suicide-related life insurance claims were for men.
Commenting on the report, Mike Farrell, Protection Sales and Marketing Director at LV=, said: "Men’s mental health continues to suffer from stigma and lack of awareness, preventing many from seeking help early.
"Our data shows a worrying gap between men experiencing stress and those accessing support. Protection benefits can help close that gap, offering financial reassurance and access to valuable health and wellbeing services."
