There has been a significant rise in demand for mental health support, according to life insurance and retirement specialist LV=.

It said access to its remote psychological services increased by 61% last year compared to 2023.

The findings come from its 2024 claims report which also showed that 15% of income protection claims were due to people struggling with their mental health, which was the third most common reason for claiming.

However, just under half (48%) of UK adults remain without any form of cover, LV= said.

Its Reaching Resilience report revealed almost one in ten (9%) people who have experienced a mental health event for two months or more have continued to work.

The data also revealed one in five people who hold protection policies reportedly felt reduced levels of anxiety and greater peace of mind, knowing they are financially supported should they need to take time off due to illness.

The firm said the figure emphasises the essential role protection products can play in supporting physical and mental wellbeing and recovery.

Mike Farrell, protection sales and marketing director at LV=, said: “Mental health continues to be a growing concern for individuals and their families across the UK, and our insights reflect that more people are actively seeking support.

“Protection products are evolving to meet these needs, providing more than financial cover, by offering vital services like therapy and rehabilitation as well.”

LV= said it supports advisers by providing relevant insights, tools and resources to help them have impactful protection conversations.

the LV= Doctor Services app includes remote psychological services, providing emotional and behavioural support from qualified therapists who are trained to offer counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as well as other mental health treatments.

• The data came from a survey of 2,720 nationally representative UK workers conducted for LV= by Opinium between 15 – 25 October 2024.