The other day, I had a talk with a friend suffering from postpartum depression, and it made me think; mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet it remains a significant challenge for many women worldwide.
Women experience unique psychological pressures influenced by biological, social, and environmental factors. While mental health struggles can affect anyone, women are more likely to experience conditions such as anxiety and depression due to various biological and sociocultural influences.
Therefore, in this article, I will explore 11 undisputed factors that impact the mental health of women, drawing from scientific research, expert insights, and lived experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Women have higher rates of anxiety and depression, which may be linked to physical health issues.
- One in five women (19%) suffer from a Common Mental Disorder (such as anxiety or depression), compared to one in eight (12%) men.
- A quarter of young women (25.7%) have self-harmed, more than double the proportion of young men. There is evidence that it may be higher and is increasing.
- Hormonal changes, societal expectations, body image pressures, caregiving responsibilities, and stigma are only some of the factors affecting the mental health of women.
- To maintain excellent mental health, exercise regularly, practice mindfulness, get eight hours of sleep per night, and participate in activities you enjoy.
Women’s Mental Health Issues
Women often experience different mental health issues than men. Women have higher rates of anxiety and depression, which may be linked to physical health issues. Hormonal changes can cause postpartum depression, depression during menopause, or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Women’s experiences with mental health disorders can differ. While some males may become enraged due to depression, women are more likely to experience fatigue, sadness, and a lack of motivation.
Every year, around 29 million American women face mental health conditions. It’s vital to realize that you’re not alone. You can get help from friends, family, your community, and your healthcare provider.
Factors Affecting the Mental Health of Women
1. Hormonal Changes and Reproductive Health
Ever heard your mom, sister, or partner say something along the lines of: “My hormones are acting up” or “I’m experiencing a major mood swing”? Well, women undergo several hormonal shifts throughout life—puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause—all of which can significantly affect mental health.
In fact, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels are closely linked to mood disorders, including premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and postpartum depression.
Pregnancy-related conditions such as postpartum depression and anxiety affect millions of women, with up to 15% of new mothers experiencing severe postpartum depression. The transition to menopause, characterized by a drop in estrogen levels, is also associated with mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
So the next time your partner is moody, go easy on her, okay?
Ensuring women have access to reproductive health education and mental health support during these life stages is essential for overall well-being.
2. Gender-Based Violence and Trauma
Violence against women is a global crisis that significantly affects mental health. Domestic violence, sexual assault, and emotional abuse can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 3 women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. I, personally, have seen many survivors struggle with long-term emotional distress, trust issues, and difficulties forming healthy relationships.
How can we help in cases like this? Well, trauma-informed mental health services, community support, and strong legal protections are crucial for helping survivors recover and rebuild their lives.
3. Societal Expectations and Gender Roles
Women often face immense pressure to conform to societal expectations, whether as caregivers, professionals, or partners. This expectation to “have it all” can lead to chronic stress, burnout, and feelings of inadequacy.
As women, we are often expected to juggle multiple roles: career responsibilities, childcare, household duties, and emotional caregiving. This constant pressure can result in “superwoman syndrome”, where women push themselves beyond their limits, leading to exhaustion, anxiety, and depression.
Promoting realistic expectations and supporting work-life balance initiatives can help reduce stress and improve the mental health of women.
4. Economic Stress and Financial Inequality
Of course, we can’t skip the financial struggles women face in our society. We have come a long way from the mistreatment of females in a working environment, however, financial instability is a major stressor that disproportionately affects women.
The gender pay gap, lack of financial independence, and career interruptions due to caregiving responsibilities contribute to increased economic stress.
According to studies, women are more likely to experience economic insecurity, especially single mothers, widows, and those working in low-wage jobs. Financial stress can lead to chronic anxiety, depression, and an increased risk of substance abuse.
Providing financial literacy programs, equal pay policies, and career advancement opportunities for women can help mitigate these effects.
This leads us to our next factor.
5. Discrimination and Workplace Stress
Women continue to face workplace discrimination, including sexism, harassment, and a lack of advancement opportunities.
Such experiences can contribute to impostor syndrome, where women doubt their own abilities despite their achievements.
Workplace stress can result in anxiety, depression, and burnout, particularly in male-dominated industries where women may feel isolated or undervalued.
How can we start to solve this? Well, I believe implementing inclusive policies, mental health support in the workplace, and stronger protections against discrimination can improve well-being for women professionals.
6. Body Image Pressures and Self-Esteem
Society places immense pressure on women to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, leading to body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. As a plus-sized woman, this pressure is nothing new to me.
Even the rise of social media, photo editing apps, and influencer culture has intensified these pressures.
Studies show that women who engage with appearance-focused content on social media are at a higher risk of developing eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
In my line of work, I’ve had to deal with people with issues like body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which has also become more prevalent due to excessive comparison with unattainable beauty ideals.
In light of this, I would like to encourage the promotion of body positivity, media literacy, and self-acceptance, which help counteract these negative effects on mental health.
7. Caregiving Responsibilities and Emotional Labor
Women often bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities, whether for children, elderly parents, or sick family members. This unpaid labor can lead to physical exhaustion, emotional distress, and social isolation.
Many women experience caregiver burnout, a state of chronic stress that affects mental and physical health. The emotional labor of always being the “caretaker” can also lead to neglecting personal needs and suppressing emotions, which contributes to long-term mental health issues.
Recognizing caregiving as real work, providing social support, and ensuring access to respite care can help women maintain their well-being.
8. Relationship Challenges and Emotional Well-Being
Ladies, do we need to say anymore??
Unhealthy relationships—whether romantic, familial, or friendships—can take a toll on women’s mental health. Toxic relationships, emotional manipulation, lack of support… The list doesn’t end. All these can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression.
Studies indicate that women in unhealthy relationships are more likely to experience chronic stress, low self-esteem, and even physical health issues.
Ladies, I need you to know that setting healthy boundaries, seeking therapy, and surrounding oneself with supportive individuals are important for our emotional well-being.
9. Lack of Mental Health Awareness and Stigma
Despite progress, mental health stigma remains a barrier for many women seeking help. In some cultures, admitting to mental health struggles is seen as a weakness, discouraging women from speaking up.
Women may also downplay their own symptoms, dismissing them as just “stress” or “hormonal changes.” This reluctance to seek professional help can lead to untreated mental health conditions, worsening over time.
Raising awareness, promoting open conversations, and increasing access to affordable mental health care can encourage more women to prioritize their mental well-being.
10. Social Isolation and Loneliness
Women, particularly stay-at-home mothers, elderly women, and those living in rural areas, are at high risk of social isolation. I find this quite sad.
A lack of social connections can lead to depression, anxiety, and even physical health issues like heart disease.
The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted how social isolation can negatively impact mental health, particularly for women who rely on community and social interactions for emotional support.
Encouraging social engagement, building strong support networks, and participating in community activities can help combat loneliness and improve mental health.
11. Sleep Deprivation and Chronic Fatigue
Women are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders due to stress, hormonal changes, and caregiving responsibilities. Insomnia, restless sleep, and chronic fatigue contribute to increased anxiety, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
Mothers, shift workers, and women experiencing menopause often struggle with poor sleep quality, leading to a cycle of exhaustion that worsens mental health symptoms.
Ladies, let’s remember that prioritizing sleep hygiene, managing stress, and seeking medical support for sleep disorders can help improve mental well-being.
What Are Some Facts About Mental Health for Women?
The prevalence of mental illness among women is increasing. One in five women (19%) suffer from a Common Mental Disorder (such as anxiety or depression), compared to one in eight (12%) men.
Mental Health and Abuse
There is strong evidence that women’s mental health is linked to their experiences with violence and abuse. For example, 53% of women with mental health issues have been abused. More than three-quarters (78%) of women who have endured substantial physical and sexual assault, both as children and adults, have had life-threatening trauma, with 16% suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Over a third (36%) of women who have experienced substantial physical and sexual violence in their childhood and adulthood have attempted suicide, and a fifth (22%) have self-harmed.
Mental Health and Poverty
Women in poverty are more likely to have poor mental health, with 29% of them suffering from a common mental health issue compared to 16% of non-poor women.
Women in poverty who have experienced abuse are more likely to have poor mental health.
Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Women
Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic women suffer additional inequalities and challenges to their mental health, such as racism and stigma, and are at higher risk of developing Common Mental Disorders.
29% of Black women, 24% of Asian women, and 29% of mixed-race women suffer from common mental conditions, while 21% of White British women and 16% of White other women do.
Mental Illnesses in Young Women and Girls
Three-quarters (75%) of mental health issues arise before the age of 24, and young women have emerged as the highest-risk category for mental illness:
A quarter of young women (25.7%) have self-harmed, more than double the proportion of young men. There is evidence that it may be higher and is increasing.
26% of young women suffer from a Common Mental Disorder, such as anxiety or depression, which is nearly three times higher than the rate among young males.
One in every seven young women (16-24) has PTSD (compared to 3.6% of young men).
72% of those in suicide therapy with the NSPCC are girls.
Suicide is the third most prevalent reason that females contact Childline, and the fifth most common for boys.
According to a University of Manchester study, 73% of 10-19-year-olds who reported self-harm at least once were female. Experts have detected a “rapid” spike in self-harm among teenage girls, with complaints of self-harm among 13-16 year females climbing by 68% between 2011 and 2014.
Ways to Improve the Mental Health of Women
In my experience, good mental health habits differ for each woman. Some unwind by having a quiet bath and reading a book, while others relieve tension through physical activity.
To maintain excellent mental health, you can:
- Exercise regularly.
- Practice mindfulness (living in the moment).
- Get eight hours of sleep per night.
- Express appreciation for the things and people in your life.
- Say pleasant things about yourself and others.
- Create new friendships and connections.
- Participate in activities that you enjoy.
However, if you suffer from depression or anxiety, these healthy practices may not be sufficient to enhance your mental health.
Treatment For Women’s Mental Health Conditions
If you believe you or someone you care about is facing mental health challenges, you should seek assistance and support.
Your healthcare providers can connect you with resources that will help you develop new habits to improve your mental health. You can also consult with various trusted health providers, including:
- The primary care physician
- Your OB/GYN
- A psychiatrist.
- A licensed counselor.
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 at any time of day or night. These qualified professionals provide you with help at no cost.
Final Thoughts: Prioritizing The Mental Health of Women
The mental health of women is shaped by a complex web of biological, societal, and psychological factors. While progress has been made in recognizing these challenges, much work remains to be done. Addressing the root causes—such as gender inequality, financial stress, and lack of mental health resources—is essential for improving women’s mental well-being.
Encouraging open discussions, seeking professional help, and breaking the stigma around mental health can empower women to take charge of their mental well-being. Societies, workplaces, and healthcare systems must work together to create environments where women can thrive mentally and emotionally.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, reach out to a trusted friend, therapist, or helpline. Mental health matters, and you are not alone.
What are your thoughts on these factors? Have you or someone you know been affected by any of these issues? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.
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