Women are significantly more stressed than men, according to the country's largest survey on the issue.

It found 81 per cent have felt overwhelmed and unable to cope in the past year, compared with 67 per cent of men.

More than a third have felt suicidal from stress, compared with 29 per cent of men, and 18 per cent of women have self-harmed as a result of it. Women's biggest stress issue was personal finance, with 43 per cent citing it, while for men it was the pressures of work (41 per cent).

More than a third of women have felt suicidal from stress, compared with 29 per cent of men

But society's focus on women's looks may be a significant factor, with more than a third of those who said they were highly stressed blaming concerns about their appearance and body image. The Mental Health Foundation, which surveyed more than 4,600 people, also found 18 to 24-year-olds are more stressed than their parents.

Charity director Isabella Goldie said: 'Stress is one of the great public health challenges of our time, but it still isn't taken as seriously as physical health concerns.

'Stress is a significant factor in mental health problems. It is also linked to physical health problems like heart disease, problems with our immune system, insomnia and digestive problems.'

The report, Stress – Are We Coping?, found housing and the pressure to succeed are the biggest worries for those aged 18 to 24. In this group, 83 per cent feel overwhelmed by stress and unable to cope, compared with fewer than a third of over-55s.

The report also highlights 'digital stress', saying 'pressure to always be available online can have negative impacts'.