LV= has reported a notable gender disparity in the uptake of mental health support services available through protection policies, with data revealing that men are significantly less likely than women to access psychological help despite rising levels of stress and anxiety.
The insurer’s latest Claims Report showed a 61% year-on-year rise in demand for mental health support, including access to remote psychological services.
However, men accounted for only f43% of users, compared to 57% of women.
The findings come alongside results from LV’s Wealth and Wellbeing research, which indicated ongoing pressures on men’s mental health.
In the three months to September 2025, 33% of men reported feeling stressed or anxious, 28% reported exhaustion and one in four (equivalent to 8.6 million men) expressed concerns about money.
Despite this, only 6% sought professional support in person and four percent online.
According to the Claims Report, nearly three quarters of suicide-related life insurance claims were for men.
LV= noted that protection policies can provide support beyond financial benefits.
Policyholders have access to LV= Doctor Services, which includes remote psychological support from qualified therapists offering counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy and other treatments.
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.
“At LV=, we are committed to working with advisers to raise awareness of the wider benefits of protection. By normalising conversations around mental and physical health, we can help more men access support before issues escalate.”
