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Women's Mental Health
Women's Mental Health
As we move through different stages in our lives, we enjoy and cherish happy times as
well as face challenges. In fact, many of the things that bring us great joy and
fulfillment, such as close relationships, a promotion, having a baby, or buying a home,
also can cause stress on our mental health. At some point we also have to cope with
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. Changes in our physical health also affect
our mental health. Changes in the body's hormone levels from pregnancy and childbirth, or
from menopause, can cause depression, anxiety, irritability, and tearfulness. Depression
also comes along with many illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, HIV, or
autoimmune diseases.
We all feel worried, anxious or sad from time to time. But, a true mental health
disorder makes it hard for a woman to function normally. Women suffer twice as often as
men by most forms of depression and anxiety disorders, and nine times as often by eating
disorders. While there are different mental health disorders, they all are real illnesses
that can't be willed or wished away. You aren't at fault if you have one, and 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.
Last updated: March 2004
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