The number of freelancers suffering from mental health issues has increased by more than 200 per cent during the pandemic, according to new research from the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE).
Following a recent study, the organisation revealed that the proportion of self-employed workers reporting mental health concerns has increased from six per cent to 20 per cent, with 52 per cent stating that their mental health had deteriorated during the pandemic.
IPSE also found that, of the freelancers who reported having poor mental health, nearly 71 per cent said this had manifested itself as anxiety or depression, while 69 per cent said they had experienced an increase in negative thoughts.
The study showed that one of the key factors in the rise in mental health issues among freelancers was the financial implications of the pandemic, with three out of five self-employed workers stating that it had a negative impact on their business.
Commenting on the results of the study, Chloé Jepps, Head of Research at IPSE, stated that it was clear mental health issues were the “hidden cost” of the pandemic, particularly among independent workers.
“We all know the lockdowns and the sheer tragedy of the pandemic have been bad for mental health across the board, but a 200 per cent increase in poor mental health is shocking evidence of just how exposed the self-employed community is,” she said.
“While freelancers should take time to consider and improve their mental health, government should also raise awareness about this issue and incentivise client businesses to support their freelancers’ mental health needs.”
