Good mental health is essential to overall well-being. More than 1 in 5 women in the United States experienced a mental health condition in the past year, such as depression or anxiety. Many mental health conditions, such as depression and bipolar disorder, affect more women than men or affect women in different ways from men. Most serious mental health conditions cannot be cured. But they can be treated, so you can feel better and live well.
Women with mental health conditions face unique challenges. A mental health condition can make hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle and pregnancy worse. Some mental health conditions can make it harder to get pregnant. Living with a mental health condition also means knowing how to care for all aspects of your life.
Symptoms of depression may include but are not limited to:
Feeling angry or moody
Feeling sad and hopeless
Feeling guilty, shameful, or worthless
Eating more or less than usual
Sleeping more or less than usual
Unusual crying or sadness
Loss of interest, joy, or pleasure in doing things you used to enjoy.
Withdrawing from friends and family
Possible thoughts of harming your child or yourself
We routinely screen our patients for these conditions because our goal is to help every patient achieve optimal wellness. Talk openly with your health care provider if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. You are not alone.
Some quick tips for maintaining mental health:
Accept Your Needs: Recognize your triggers and take steps to avoid or cope with stressors.
Manage Your Time: Prioritize tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Set Boundaries: Control what you can and limit your exposure to stressful situations.
Exercise Daily: Engage in physical activity to relieve stress and improve overall well-being.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Eat Well: Maintain a healthy diet to stabilize your mood.
Get Enough Sleep: Ensure you rest well to avoid triggering mental health symptoms.
Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Substance use can worsen stress, so seek help if needed.
Spend Time in Nature: Nature has proven benefits for reducing stress.
Find Support: Reach out to friends, family, or professionals when you need to talk or seek assistance.
Keep Up or Seek Therapy: If you’re overwhelmed, consider sharing with a mental health professional.
Visit these sites for more information and helpful resources:
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