5 Mental Health Conditions Common in Women

Your mental health is affected by many different factors, from age and family history to your gender. Just as men are more vulnerable to certain health issues, so are women. 

While anyone can develop one of these mental health conditions, women should be especially aware of signs that mental health is deteriorating. 

At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions with locations in Fairfax and Alexandria, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Ifeanyi Olele helps identify, treat, and manage symptoms of many different women’s mental health conditions.

5 mental health conditions that commonly affect women 

Some mental health conditions are more common in women for physiological reasons, while others are due to societal reasons. Here are five such conditions. 

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause are all stages that involve hormonal changes. These have a noticeable impact on your body and mind, including your mood and mental health. 

If you notice yourself feeling depressed and dejected around the same time every month, premenstrual dysphoric disorder might be the culprit. 

Perinatal mental health issues 

Just as your period might cause you to feel under the weather, pregnancy and childbirth can as well. 

You may be familiar with the concept of “baby blues,” or postpartum depression. Other perinatal mental health issues include anxiety, obsessive compulsive behaviors, and postpartum psychosis. 

Post-traumatic stress disorder

While you might associate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with veterans and first responders, women are more likely to develop PTSD following a difficult birth, miscarriage, sexual assault, or domestic violence. 

Many of these cases go undiagnosed and unresolved, as the majority of these women do not realize how badly they’ve been traumatized. 

Eating disorders 

It’s well known that women are more likely to develop eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating. 

These disorders are often tied to self-confidence, body dysmorphia, and a difficult history and relationship with food or weight gain. Beauty standards also play a role in many cases, especially in the era of social media. 

Anxiety 

Anxiety disorders are twice as common in women than in men and range from generalized anxiety to social anxiety and agoraphobia. Women with anxiety often struggle with feeling heard and expressing their fears, which is why guidance from a counselor is so important. 

Finding the right psychiatrist 

Regardless of what you’re experiencing, you should take up your concerns about your mental health with a professional. Early intervention can prevent a downward spiral and give you the skills you need to prevent them in the future. 

But it can be difficult finding someone you feel comfortable talking to, especially if you need to discuss trauma or sensitive topics. At Genesis Psychiatric Solutions, Dr. Olele provides mental health services specifically for women, giving you space to discuss whatever you need. 

Based on your medical history and consultation, Dr. Olele can begin diagnosing the issue and building a treatment plan. Depending on the issue, you might benefit from birth control, medication, talk therapy, and/or lifestyle changes. 

Are you concerned about your mental health? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Olele by calling the location closest to you, or request an appointment online.