Findings of new adviser mental health survey to be taken to government

The two creators of the survey released last week - Artemis Investments (NSW) director Philippa Hunt and Forte Asset Management founder and director Steve Prendeville – said they intend to bring the findings to the attention of government.

On a new episode of the ifa Show podcast, Ms Hunt and Mr Prendeville sat down to discuss the survey at length which they are aiming to get a screengrab of the situation that advisers face in 2022 given that there has been no attainable way of understanding their current needs so far this year.

The survey looks at the mental and emotional health of planners, as well as FASEA, LIF and the effects of both now. It is targeted to all financial advisers, including those in insurance and investment, as well as staff who work with and for advisers.

“I think if we can quantify the problem, maybe we can build some support systems, referral arrangements,” Mr Prendeville said.

“Also, I think if the minimum we achieve is that people understand it and know that they're not alone… then hopefully if we've got some data we can speak out and up, back up to government and try and, sort of, quantify these unintended consequences of mass legislation in a short period of time.”

Ms Hunt added that they also hope to set “some kind of coaching or support service” to continue the support once they have gathered the results of the survey.

“And then provide some kind of strategic and emotional and mental health support for these guys who really are struggling, but don't know where to go, what to do,” Ms Hunt explained.

“When in actual fact, it might be a something in their business around implementing the legislation and they're worried about it getting wrong. So from the results of the survey, we'll figure out what advisers need and want. And hopefully we can set something up for them.”

To complete the survey, click here and listen to the full ifa Show episode with Ms Hunt and Mr Prendeville here.

If you are suffering from depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts, or you’re worried about someone else and feel that urgent professional support is needed, contact your local doctor or one of the 24/7 crisis agencies below:

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 www.beyondblue.org.au 
Lifeline: 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au 
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Neil Griffiths

Neil is the Deputy Editor of the wealth titles, including ifa and InvestorDaily.

Neil is also the host of the ifa show podcast.