Women are more likely than men — 53% compared to 47% — to take a leave of absence from work, according to a new study from Portland-based Standard Insurance Company (better known as The Standard). As a result, researchers say women suffer greater negative effects to their finances, emotional health, and career.
The online survey included 5,000 workers — about 70% of them women — who receive employee benefits. Nearly 60% of women respondents said taking leave negatively affected their finances, and 36% report negative effects on their emotional health. While 61% of women said their employer makes accommodations for pregnancy, only 44% feel supported for broader women’s health issues.
Additionally, nearly a quarter of women take leave for mental health purposes, and it is the top reason women don’t return to work. On the other hand, women who receive employer accommodations experience fewer negative effects on their productivity and finance, according to the report.
“Supporting women at work means being there when they need to step away,” Amy Malagamba, vice president of marketing at The Standard, said in a statement. “Our research shows that when employers address women’s financial and mental health needs during and following leave, they build a more loyal, engaged and productive workforce.”
Potential employer accommodations
The report also provides considerations for employers to better support employee leave through improved policies, communication, and return-to-work programs. They include the following:
- Embedding support in company culture: Ensure leave and options for accommodations are openly discussed and valued.
- Communicating benefits clearly: Make sure women know about company resources for health, caregiving, and financial wellness.
- Offering comprehensive return-to-work programs: Flexible, empathetic processes help women reintegrate and stay productive.
- Prioritizing mental health: Provide access to counseling, paid mental health days, and employee resource groups.
“Leave is meant to help workers, but too often it comes at a cost for women and their families,” Malagamba added. “Employers who invest in targeted support not only help women succeed but they also strengthen their entire organization.”
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