Wow. Shows that wellbeing dimensions can not always be completely in one's control, and that professional guidance, medical support and emergency interventions can sometimes be required.
1. Hormonal influences increase the likelihood of mental health symptoms
Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, can significantly impact a woman’s mental health. Conditions like premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) – characterized by severe mood changes before menstruation – highlight the connection between hormonal changes and mental well-being. PMDD can cause a host of psychological symptoms, including:
Irritability
Depression
Anxiety
Forgetfulness
Insomnia
Paranoia
Lack of control
2. Women have higher rates of depression than men
One of the mental health outcomes of a woman’s hormonal influences is the greater likelihood of experiencing depression than men. In fact, women are twice as likely to experience depression. The reasons for this gender difference are multifaceted and involve biological, hormonal, and psychosocial factors. Women may also face unique stressors, such as societal expectations, caregiving responsibilities, and the impact of gender-based violence, which can all contribute to higher rates of depression.
3. Depression is the leading mental health issue for women worldwide
Not only are women experiencing higher rates of depression than men, but depression is also a primary mental health concern for women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading mental health issue for women and one of the most common causes of death in women under 60.
4. Anxiety disorders are more common in women than men
Depression isn’t the only mental health condition affecting women disproportionately. From puberty until about age 50, a woman is twice as likely to experience anxiety than a man. Biological factors, such as hormonal fluctuations and differences in brain chemistry, as well as psychosocial factors, such as societal pressures and life events, can contribute to the higher prevalence of anxiety disorders in women.
5. Anorexia and bulimia affect women significantly more than men
Mental health disparities between men and women don’t stop after depression and anxiety. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, are known to disproportionately affect women, as well. In fact, approximately 85%-95% of people diagnosed with anorexia or bulimia are women.
Societal pressures regarding body image and beauty standards can contribute to the development of eating disorders. Therefore, it’s important to address these societal influences and promote body positivity to support women’s mental health.
6. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is twice as likely in women
Women are more likely to experience PTSD than men, as much as two to three times as likely. This is often the result of higher exposures to trauma, such as sexual assault, domestic violence, or childhood abuse. The effects of trauma on mental health are profound, and addressing trauma through therapy and support is crucial for recovery.
7. Women face unique mental health challenges during pregnancy and postpartum
As if previous disparities weren’t enough, hormonal shifts during pregnancy and postpartum have been linked to conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety. About 10% of pregnant women and 13% of postpartum women experience a perinatal-related mental health condition. This can have a significant impact on new mothers, affecting both their well-being as well as their children’s. Early detection and intervention are crucial for maternal mental health during this sensitive time.
8. Women who experience poverty are at greater risk for developing a mental health condition
A clear link has been found between a woman’s mental health and her relationship to the poverty line. In fact, women experiencing poverty are nearly twice as likely to face poor mental health outcomes than women living above the poverty line. This critical relationship highlights the need to better support women in their socioeconomic endeavors.
9. Roughly half of women experiencing mental health issues are victims of abuse
Evidence shows that roughly half of women experiencing a mental health condition are victims of abuse. Understanding the intersection of mental health and abuse is crucial for providing comprehensive support to affected individuals.
The lasting impact of abuse on mental well-being emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care and specialized interventions. By addressing the underlying trauma and fostering a safe environment, mental health professionals can play a vital role in helping female survivors navigate their healing journey.
10. Women are more likely to receive treatment for their mental health than men
While it can feel discouraging to learn about all of the adversities women face when it comes to mental health, it should also feel hopeful to learn that women are more likely to seek help and treatment from a mental health professional. The first step to getting better is understanding there’s a problem and seeking help. Therefore, it stands to reason that there’s an incredible chance we can make things better for women over time.
