Life is tough, no doubt about it. However, women seem to get the short end of the stick because of their gender. They often battle unique hurdles that make them vulnerable psychologically.

In fact, recent research data shows that more women suffer from serious mental illnesses than men.

So, what are common issues that women face that affect their mental health? Let’s unpack these struggles together.

1. Menstruation

Menstruation is a part of life for most women, but it’s a topic we don’t talk about enough.

Many women feel extra sensitive, irritable, or tired around their periods, no thanks to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Cramps, bloating, and headaches don’t exactly make things easier.

It’s even worse for those diagnosed with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)—think PMS on steroids. PMDD brings extreme mood swings, crying spells, rage, depression, and even thoughts of self-harm. 

2. Pregnancy and Postpartum

Becoming a mom is an amazing experience, but it’s definitely not all rainbows and smiles. The idea of growing a tiny human inside you can be nerve-wracking, especially with those hormones running wild.

Once your baby arrives, you’re in for sleepless nights and endless to-do lists. It’s normal to feel all over the place in those first few weeks—happy, anxious, overwhelmed, and sometimes even a bit down.

But if those baby blues don’t go away or start to feel too much, it could be postpartum depression, a condition you shouldn’t ignore.

3. Menopause 

Another tough chapter in a woman’s life is menopause. Many endure in silence—worrying endlessly, sorting through brain fog, and constantly being on the edge. Some women even have panic attacks for the first time.

Night sweats can wake you at night, leaving you with even less energy. Between poor sleep and all the midlife stresses, it’s hard to feel stellar mentally.

4. Juggling Multiple Roles

Balancing different roles simultaneously can feel like walking a tightrope. You’re a partner, parent, child, employee, friend, and caregiver, all rolled into one.

Gender expectations put extra pressure to be perfect in all those roles, leaving many women stretched too thin.

5. Workplace Discrimination

Even after all the progress we’ve made and the #MeToo movement, it’s still tough being a woman in the workforce. About 40% of working females in the US have dealt with discrimination just because they’re female.

Women must constantly prove themselves, fight for equal pay, and push for opportunities they deserve.

Dealing with sexual harassment is another huge problem. It’s exhausting to feel undervalued and disrespected day after day.

6. Body Image

It’s hard not to feel a little insecure with all those flawless pictures on your feed. But remember that these photos are often photoshopped to perfection. 

So, instead of letting unrealistic beauty standards drag you down, focus on strengthening yourself from the inside out. Your worth as a person has nothing to do with your looks.

7. Single Parenthood

Doing the work of two parents is a reality for many women. You’re wearing all the hats—cook, driver, nurse, and teacher. Finding even a few minutes of me-time is a rare luxury.

On top of everything, there’s the constant worry about money. Childcare is expensive, and many single moms work crazy hours to make ends meet.

It’s heartbreaking feeling like you can’t give your kids everything they deserve, and the guilt can be too much.

8. Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is abuse, plain and simple. Living with someone who hurts you, physically or emotionally, is no way to live.

Still, many women stay in these toxic relationships, controlled and manipulated by their abusive partners.

The constant fear, uncertainty, and isolation can leave lasting emotional scars. It’s common for survivors to suffer from depression, PTSD, and substance abuse.

9. Health Concerns

Conditions like endometriosis, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), and thyroid disorders can cause chronic pain, fatigue, and hormonal imbalances.

And to make matters worse, you might also be dealing with weight gain, unwanted hair growth, or acne.

10. Aging and Life Transitions

Aging brings more challenges than just menopause. Many women have lived all their lives being moms or working professionals.

When you retire or your kids move out, you suddenly have tons of free time and no clue how to fill it. You might feel lost and lonely during these periods.

Final Thoughts

Women are capable of amazing things. When life feels overwhelming, take a deep breath and reach out to someone you trust.

Make your mental health a priority—don’t wait until things become unbearable to start taking care of yourself.

About the author

Dr. Bradford Stucki is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with adults in Utah, Virginia, and Texas who have experienced trauma in their childhoods or trauma as an adult. Dr. Stucki also has expertise in treating anxiety, and relationship problems. Dr. Stucki has specialized training in working with PTSD as well as couples issues. Hisprivate practice, BridgeHope Family Therapy is in Provo, Utah.