As the cost-of-living crisis casts a shadow over many this autumn, new research from The Body Shop sheds light on women’s resilience and the challenges they face. The survey, which consulted over 1,000 women, reveals that only 14% of women see themselves as resilient, compared to 31% of men.
The survey highlights a significant disparity in resilience between different demographics. Non-white women are notably more likely to view themselves as resilient, with 20% identifying this way compared to just 14% of their white counterparts. Many attribute their resilience to overcoming tough experiences, a strong sense of faith, and a persistent ‘never give up’ attitude.
The survey also identifies self-care as a crucial factor in maintaining positivity. For 40% of women, self-care is their primary means of staying upbeat, including practices such as self-kindness, mental and physical health care, and personal time. In contrast, men place less emphasis on self-care, with only 30% prioritizing it.
Economic pressures and personal health are key issues testing women’s resilience. The cost of living is the top concern, followed by the wellbeing of family and friends, and physical health. Millennial women (aged 25-34) are particularly affected, frequently feeling they are falling short of expectations compared to their peers. Despite this, Millennials display slightly higher resilience levels on average (17%) than other age groups.
Younger women are particularly worried about mental health, which is their top concern. For those aged 18-24, mental health tops the list, while it remains a significant worry for those aged 25-44. Conversely, women aged 45 and over are more concerned about physical health, including issues related to perimenopause and menopause.
The survey also highlights a troubling trend among marginalized groups. Women with disabilities and those in the LGBTQ+ community report significantly lower levels of resilience, with Net Resilience Scores of 4% for those with disabilities, 5% for LGBTQ+ individuals, and just 2% for transgender women. These lower scores reflect the additional barriers and challenges faced by these groups in their daily lives.
In response to these insights, The Body Shop has launched “Living Resiliently,” a new song narrated by Melanie C. The track, featuring contributions from 20 diverse voices including mental health advocate Gemma Styles and The Body Shop employees, offers advice on fostering resilience. Melanie C, whose own career exemplifies resilience through her time with the Spice Girls and her subsequent successes, hopes the song will inspire and uplift women across the UK.
“The song is a celebration of inner resilience,” says Melanie C. “I loved recording it and hope it resonates with everyone. Resilience is not just about pushing through; it’s about nurturing ourselves to thrive.”
Maddie Smith, Managing Director of The Body Shop in the UK & Ireland, echoes this sentiment. “Resilience is about being kind to ourselves and creating a supportive environment. Self-care, whether through skincare or other means, helps us tackle life’s challenges.”
The launch of the song coincides with The Body Shop’s celebration of its Edelweiss skincare line, known for its ability to fortify the skin barrier. The bestselling Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate is a particular favourite, selling globally every 23 seconds.
For more information and to listen to the song here, visit The Body Shop’s website or your local store.
Contributed by: PR Newswire
