Women's Mental Health

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Life has its share of happy times, as well hard times — all of which can affect your mental health. Traumatic life events — such as dealing with a loved one's serious illness or death, a loss of a job, domestic violence, or sexual assault — can affect the mind and body. On the other hand, many of the things that bring great joy to your life, such as close relationships, a promotion, having a baby, or buying a home, also can cause stress on your mental health.

Changes in our physical health can also affect our mental health. For instance, changing hormone levels due to a woman’s monthly period can affect her mood, causing irritability and tearfulness. Also, women’s mental health is at greater risk for problems like depression during puberty, after having a baby, and in the years just before menopause. Depression also comes along with many illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, HIV, or autoimmune diseases.

Good mental health is an important part of a woman’s overall health. All women feel worried, anxious, or sad from time to time. But a true mental health disorder makes it hard for a woman to function normally. It’s important to remember that mental health disorders are real medical illnesses that can't be willed or wished away! They affect both the mind and the body; it’s not just “all in your head.” In fact, while most mental health disorders do not have a precise cause, they result from a combination of life events, brain chemicals, genes, hormones, and illness.

It is not your fault if you have a mental health disorder. You should not suffer in silence. Be patient with yourself and reach out to others for help. These illnesses can be treated successfully so that you can get back to enjoying life — not only for yourself, but for your family, too.

Here you will find information about mental health issues that affect women and links to the best organizations and publications on mental health.

2009 Women's Mental Health Report Women's Mental Health: What It Means to You — Consumer Guide (PDF, 5.8 MB) This booklet, based on the best science available, offers tips to help women protect their mental health. Action Steps for Improving Women's Mental Health — Health Professionals Guide (PDF, 4.2 MB) This report for healthcare professionals brings together recent research, resources, products, and tools on women’s mental health issues. It also explores the role gender plays in diagnosing, treating, and coping with mental illness. It also points to resilience and social support systems as key factors in overcoming mental illness.

Content last updated March 29, 2010.