Understanding Women's
Mental Health

EBJ Jules creative content is not to be perceived as, or relied upon in any way, as medical advice, mental health or nutritional advice. If you are in crisis, please reach out to a medical professional and/or call 911 for immediate support.

What Does Women's
Mental Health Look Like

Understanding women's mental health requires recognizing that it's a complex interplay of biological, social, and psychological factors. It acknowledges that women are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and eating disorders than men, and that these conditions can be exacerbated by hormonal changes, societal pressures, and gender roles. Seeking support, understanding the unique challenges women face, and promoting open communication about mental health are crucial steps in fostering well-being.

Factors that can Affect
Women's Mental Health

1. Biological Factors

Hormonal fluctuations
Conditions like PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and postpartum depression are specific to women and often underdiagnosed or misunderstood.
Genetics and neurobiology

2. Psychological Factors

Women often experience higher rates of internalizing disorders (like anxiety and depression) compared to men, who may be more prone to externalizing disorders.
Trauma, including sexual assault and domestic violence

3. Social and Cultural Pressures

4. Barriers to Seeking Help

Stigma, lack of access to care, or being dismissed by healthcare providers
Women from marginalized communities may face additional cultural, financial, or systemic barriers.

How to Be Supportive
of Your Partner

1 . Listen Without Judgment

Let her talk about how she feels, without interrupting or offering unsolicited advice.
Avoid minimizing her feelings with comments like “It’s not that bad” or “You’re overreacting.”

2. Educate Yourself

Learn about the mental health challenges she might be facing (depression, anxiety, PMDD, postpartum depression, etc.).
Understand that hormonal changes can have real emotional effects—don’t dismiss them as moodiness.

3. Be Emotionally Available

Show her she can talk to you about her mental health without fear of being a burden.

4. Respect Her Coping Strategies

Support her in using healthy coping mechanisms like therapy, journaling, rest, or exercise.
Don’t try to replace professional help—encourage it when needed (e.g., “Would it help to talk to someone professionally? I’ll support you in finding someone.”)

5. Reduce Her Mental Load

Take initiative in household tasks, planning, or responsibilities—especially when she’s feeling overwhelmed.
Emotional labor (remembering appointments, checking in on family, organizing life) often falls disproportionately on women. Help carry that.

6. Respect Her Boundaries