The 43,000-member CISI’s latest annual member survey found that women in particular have been facing increased mental health challenges due to the pandemic.

Some 55% of women said they had suffered “stress, anxiety or depression” in the last year?” compared to 39% of men.

Some 46% of women said they were “working longer hours” during the pandemic (39% for men).

CISI CEO Simon Culhane, Chartered FCSI, said: “Since the pandemic, many of us have acknowledged the benefits of working from home, particularly in not having to commute. Our survey, though, has shown that women in our profession appear more stressed and more women have worked longer hours than their male counterparts.

“Working from home for women can be a two-edged sword, as many may still be undertaking wider home responsibilities and, for those with children, added family responsibilities, particularly regarding home schooling for children.  

“Working from home is resulting in blurred work-life boundaries, longer hours and a feeling for some of not being able to take annual leave, which will contribute to an “always on” mentality. These factors could lead to a perfect storm of stressors resulting in burnout and overwork.”

The survey, carried out in May and June, received almost 5,000 responses from the professional body’s global membership, including from those based in UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man, and Asia but also from respondents from Europe, Africa, South, Central and North America and Australasia. 

Those surveyed were also asked how confident they would feel talking to their manager at work if they felt stressed, anxious or depressed. Of the women respondents, 52% said they felt “confident”, with 59% of men answering “confident” to the same question. 

CISI members were asked if they would be returning to the office for the same number of working days as before the lockdown. Some 57% of women and 50% of men said “No”. 

The CISI has a mental health portal for those working in finance which can be accessed here

The CISI provides exams and qualifications in a number of areas, including, in the UK, the Certified Financial Planning designation and other finance and wealth management qualifications.