Understanding The Leading Mental Health Issues Impacting Women

Women's mental health is a complex and multifaceted area of concern that deserves significant attention. Women experience distinct biological, social, and cultural factors that can influence their mental well-being. This introduction aims to shed light on some of the leading mental health issues faced by women today.

From mood disorders to body image concerns and trauma-related conditions, women navigate various challenges that impact their mental health. As per a survey by WHO, one in every five women experiences a common mental health condition in her lifetime. Women are biologically and psychologically more vulnerable to specific disorders.

What are the most common mental health issues in women?

While it is important to note that mental health challenges can affect individuals of all genders, there are specific factors that contribute to the higher rates of mental health issues among women. Here are some of the most common mental health disorders that women face:

Depression

Depression is a prevalent mental health issue that affects women at higher rates than men. Several studies have also denoted how women go through depression at a higher rate as opposed to men. For example, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that women are almost twice as likely as men to experience major depressive episodes. Dr. Rupika Dhurjati, Consultant Psychiatrist, at Sukoon Health, adds, "It is also common with medical comorbidities like PCOD, thyroid disorders, and diabetes. Atypical depression, marked by increased appetite, weight gain, fatigue, sleepiness or excessive sleep, and increased reactivity, is more common in women, unlike the decrease in appetite and sleep seen in a typical depressive episode. A gender bias, more often than not, for symptoms commonly seen in depression such as headaches, body aches and fatigue, ensures that the symptoms are taken less seriously than they are for men."

She further says, "Monthly as well as life-span hormonal fluctuations (menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, perimenopause, and menopause) make women vulnerable to mental illness during these periods. Dismissal and undermining the severity of these symptoms as something that will pass through prevent women from seeking help and treatment. While Psychosocial factors like body shame, violence, sexual abuse, and social constructs of gender roles and expectations, play a role in precipitating and exacerbating the condition. Limited autonomy, a lesser say in decision-making, and a lack of financial independence add to the burden."

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Anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders are growing at a rapid rate around the globe both among men and women. Even though it is becoming increasingly common, it is as serious as any heart disease. Research has also shown that women are more susceptible to anxiety disorders, which may be influenced by biological factors such as hormonal fluctuations and reproductive life events. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that women had higher rates of anxiety disorders during reproductive stages, including pregnancy and menopause.

As per Dr Dhurjati, "People with anxiety disorders frequently have excessive worrying, trouble falling asleep, irritability, and are constantly on edge. They are also plagued by a sense of impending danger. Physical symptoms like increased heart rate, a dry mouth, an upset stomach, and sweating profusely are also frequently reported and can be incapacitating."

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Eating disorders

Women are disproportionately affected by eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Numerous studies have documented the prevalence of these conditions among women. For example, a meta-analysis published in Biological Psychiatry found that women were more likely to experience eating disorders than men. Another study published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders revealed that body dissatisfaction was significantly higher among women compared to men. Dr Dhurjati adds, "Ranging from binge eating to anorexia nervosa (fear of gaining weight, hence restricting calories and significantly low weight), bulimia nervosa (binging, then purging), and pica (eating non-food items), the woman experiencing it is often not aware of the seriousness of the condition. Unfortunately, anxiety, depression, and substance use are common among those with eating disorders."

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Post-partum depression and perinatal mood disorders

The perinatal period presents unique mental health challenges for women, particularly in the form of postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry estimated that approximately 15% of women experience postpartum depression, which can have significant consequences for both the mother and child. Research has also identified other perinatal mood disorders, including postpartum anxiety and postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Hormonal fluctuations, psychosocial stressors, and the adjustment to new motherhood contribute to the development of these conditions, highlighting the need for specialized support and intervention during this critical phase.

"While Maternal blues are common and resolve on their own within weeks after childbirth, persistent feelings of extreme sadness, indifference, and anxiety with difficulty in day-to-day functioning could be symptoms of peripartum (previously known as postpartum) depression. In severe cases, there can be suicidal thoughts, putting both the mother and child at risk. Symptoms can begin during pregnancy and last for months or years if untreated. An early diagnosis of this disorder can help decrease the risk and ensures a healthy mother-child bond. An estimated one in seven women experiences peripartum depression," says Dr Dhurjati.

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Schizophrenia and Bipolar affective disorder

About these disorders, Dr Dhurjati adds, "There are Severe Mental Illnesses (SMI) that disrupt a person¡¯s ability to perform day-to-day functions. And while there is a similar prevalence in men and women, the course of illness, age of onset, and presentation vary. A seasonal pattern of mood disturbance is seen more commonly in women with Bipolar Disorder. With SMI, while the prognosis is better for women, it is the social stigma and discrimination that impedes the course of rehabilitation for women more than men."

By understanding the underlying factors, such as biological, sociocultural, and psychological influences, we can develop effective strategies to address these mental health challenges. It is crucial to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and provide gender-sensitive mental healthcare that meets the specific needs of women. By doing so, we can support women in achieving and maintaining optimal mental well-being throughout their lives.