Women’s Mental and Behavioral Health: Unique Gender Challenges and Achieving Overall Well-Being

Thrive • May 12, 2022

By Thrive Wellness Reno Therapist Lynn Carver, LCSW

Mental and behavioral health conditions can affect women and men differently. While it can be detrimental to make sweeping generalities, there can be variations in the ways women and men experience and address mental health challenges.

MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONCERNS FACED BY WOMEN

Women are more likely to seek mental health support with nearly 25% of women having received mental health treatment in the past year compared to 13% of men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) .

Women seek therapy for any number of reasons, including:

History of trauma , including childhood abuse/neglect , adult victims of crime, natural disasters, etc.
Substance abuse
Interpersonal relationship problems
Work-life balance
Caregiver burnout
Professional obligations
Domestic violence victimization
Eating disorders
Gender dysphoria
Parenting challenges

The increased likelihood of women attending therapy may mean that women feel more comfortable seeking support.

Anxiety and Depression in Women

Women are more likely to experience depression , with depression occurring in 10% of women in contrast to 5% of men, according to the CDC . Anxiety is also more common in women, with 23% of women versus 14% of men experiencing some kind of anxiety disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) .

Higher rates of anxiety and depression faced by women may be due to the increased tendency of women to reveal their struggles with mental health professionals and a lower prevalence among men to seek mental health care.

Mental and Behavioral Health Conditions Unique to Women

Some mental and behavioral health concerns only occur in women. Often, these conditions involve hormonal changes that can exacerbate mental and behavioral challenges. Some mental and behavioral health struggles unique to women include:

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) : Either during pregnancy or following pregnancy, women may struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders which may stem from unresolved trauma, traumatic birth experiences, and/or fears around new parenting responsibilities. Partners can also experience mental health challenges surrounding parenthood, but they are more prevalent among birthing parents.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): Similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) but more severe, PMDD can cause extreme irritability, depression, or anxiety in the weeks preceding the onset of menstruation.
Perimenopause-related depression: Perimenopause, the transition women experience before entering menopause, has been linked to depression with perimenopausal women being three times more likely to experience symptoms of depression than premenopausal women, according to one study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Gender Differences in the Expression of Mental Illnesses

Other mental illnesses, like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder , occur in women and men at similar rates. However, these disorders may manifest differently across genders. For example, the onset of bipolar disorder, a condition characterized by periods of intense elation followed by periods of severe depression, often develops later in life for women than men. Additionally, women with bipolar disorder tend to experience mood disturbances that correspond to a seasonal pattern. Furthermore, women with bipolar disorder can experience emotions of mania and depression at once and rapid cycling between the two emotional phases more often than men. With schizophrenia, women seem to develop the disorder later in life than men as well. Women also tend to experience more mood disturbances and have less severe negative symptoms.

HOW ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES CONTRIBUTE TO MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CHALLENGES IN WOMEN

Many physical, mental, and behavioral health struggles in adulthood can often be traced back to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) , which describe:

Childhood abuse/neglect
Difficult parental/home situations, such as poverty, substance use within the home, parents with untreated mental illness, etc.
Environmental stressors, including living in high crime neighborhoods, exposure to violence or bullying at school, etc.

The higher one’s exposure to ACEs, the greater their risk is of facing adult health challenges such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. According to one study published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 39% of women in the U.S. have been exposed to multiple ACEs compared to 21% of men. The study also found that women are more likely to experience more complex and varied patterns of childhood adversity, which can be detrimental to physical, mental, and behavioral health.

HOW SOCIETAL PRESSURE ON WOMEN IMPACTS MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL WELL-BEING

In addition to ACEs, immense societal pressures on women can serve as a major source of distress. Cultural expectations for women to look, behave, and achieve in certain ways are misleading, unrealistic, and potentially harmful to their well-being. Media portrayals of women play a significant role in this phenomenon. So often, images featuring minimally dressed women sensually eating a juicy, humongous burger are immediately followed by ads for weight loss solutions. This is just one of many examples of conflicting and confusing media messaging centered around and aimed at women, specifically.

INTEGRATING MENTAL, BEHAVIORAL, AND PHYSICAL HEALTH

Mental, behavioral, and physical health are intricately intertwined . Any changes to one of these components can have echoing effects on the others. When women care for their mental and behavioral health in addition to physical well-being, they can improve their relationships with themselves and others, their bodies, nourishment , finances, their professions, and more.

For example, when a person improves the way they nourish their body, they may notice benefits to their entire well-being, such as:

Improved mood
Heightened ability to focus
Increased effectiveness in carrying out their obligations
Decreased risk for developing serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes

Furthermore, when individuals prioritize making space for positive experiences in their lives, they may catalyze positive life changes, such as:

Improved ability to tolerate distress
Increased motivation to work towards goals
Heightened sense of self-worth

Often, women have been conditioned to distrust their intuition, but when they learn to have confidence in it, they may realize that they have everything they need to improve their lives. However, at times it takes an outside perspective and expert guidance to realize one’s strengths and overcome any struggles. Seeing a mental health professional can help empower women to become familiar with and rely on their own natural insights as well as develop healthy coping skills to navigate through any challenges that come their way.

MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE FOR WOMEN

Barriers to Mental and Behavioral Health Care

Due to existing health disparities , women may run into obstacles when seeking professional help. Some of these barriers are similar to those that exist for men.

Common barriers to mental and behavioral health care include:

Availability of appropriate services at various levels of care
Health insurance costs
Low socioeconomic status
Lack of time due to other demands and obligations
Competing priorities, such as affording living expenses versus paying for medical care or going to work versus taking time off for a doctor’s visit
Lack of culturally competent providers
Cultural issues that reduce the likelihood of seeking services
Historic separation of primary care and mental/behavioral health services even though they’re closely related

Therapeutic Care: Finding the Right Fit

Because women are wonderfully diverse, their mental and behavioral health treatment requires a similarly individualistic approach. When seeking professional support, women may consider speaking with several potential therapists and asking them about the style of their practice, specialties, and any preferred therapy modalities. During their search for a therapist who they feel comfortable with, women should feel entitled and encouraged to find a therapist who fits their needs.

The Benefits of Mental and Behavioral Health Care

Seeking mental health support can empower women, or anyone, to develop strategies for overcoming challenges, uncover and embrace their truest selves, and foster their personal growth.

Therapists and psychiatrists may guide their clients in:

Processing and healing from any trauma or grief
Adapting to major life changes
Setting boundaries within their relationships and obligations
Developing healthy, effective coping skills to help diminish any symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns

Through therapy, women can unlock their full potential while discovering ways to courageously thrive during both good and difficult times.

THRIVE HERE

Thrive offers therapeutic support and medication management for women seeking to better their mental or behavioral health. Reach out to learn more.

About the Author

Thrive Reno Therapist Lynn Carver, LCSW

Lynn Carver, LCSW, earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). She is an intensively-trained dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) therapist and is also trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), child-centered play therapy (CCPT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) modalities. Lynn is also an experienced DBT educator who has trained clinicians, line staff, families, local agencies, and multiple army bases across the nation.

Her experience spans all levels of care — outpatient, inpatient, intensive outpatient, and residential — and also includes supervising clinical interns, serving in various leadership roles within agencies, and teaching undergraduates in the school of social work at UNR by Letter of Appointment (LOA). In addition to her traditional career experience, Lynn has provided pro-bono services through the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder (NEABPD) and various community-oriented organizations.

Lynn specializes in treating children and adults with borderline personality features, trauma histories and behavioral concerns, and eating disorders as well as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and attachment issues. Her passion is helping clients create a life worth living unique to them by partnering with them to identify and reduce behaviors that interfere with their quality of life. She strives to help individuals and families learn, practice, and build mastery around more effective responses to emotional pain. In every endeavor, she is committed to continually acknowledging and advocating for the unconditional worth and value of all people.

Outside of work, Lynn enjoys being a grandmother to five granddaughters and one grandson. She loves spending time at the beach and her personal favorite quote is “Don’t try to win over the haters; you are not a jackass whisperer,” by best-selling author and marketing executive Scott Stratten.

The post Women’s Mental and Behavioral Health: Unique Gender Challenges and Achieving Overall Well-Being first appeared on Thrive Wellness.

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Breaking Down Barriers: Debunking the Most Common Eating Disorder Myths

By Sage Tippie • February 14, 2025

This Eating Disorders Awareness Month, we’re focusing on fighting the misinformation and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders that so often create barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Myths about eating disorders can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and keep people from receiving effective and timely treatment when they need it. It’s no secret that the field of eating disorders is riddled with misinformation, leading to confusion, stigma, and shame for those struggling. In this blog post, we'll explore the common myths about eating disorders and fight them with concrete facts in the hopes of building a more informed and educated community when it comes to these serious mental health conditions. Eating Disorder Myths Versus Facts Myth: Only those who are medically underweight have an eating disorder. Fact: Someone can have an eating disorder at any weight. In fact, less than 6% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder are medically underweight. There is even a specific diagnosis for those who are not underweight showing the symptoms of anorexia called atypical anorexia. People of all sizes are at risk for serious complications from an eating disorder, not just those that are underweight. Myth: Only women have eating disorders Fact: Although often associated with teen girls, eating disorders can affect those of any gender and age. While stereotypes and stigma surrounding eating disorders may tell us that men are not commonly affected by them, research has found that nearly 25% of those who present for eating disorder treatment are male. Keeping an open mind around who can be affected by eating disorders allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. Myth: Eating disorders are just about food. Facts: While eating disorders always involve an unhealthy relationship with food or body image, they also are rooted in biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Eating disorders cannot be treated just by changing eating behaviors, but by addressing the mental aspect of the illness as well. This is why integrated treatment involving a team of social workers, primary care specialists, therapists, and in some cases occupational therapists or psychiatrists is so crucial: a holistic approach is needed to treat all aspects of an eating disorder. Myth: Eating disorders aren’t that serious. Fact: Eating disorders are extremely serious and life-threatening mental disorders that require dedicated treatment. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. By taking eating disorders and their diagnosis and treatment seriously, we can save lives. Myth: Eating disorders are a choice. Fact: Just like any other illness, eating disorders are not a choice or a phase, nor is recovery from an eating disorder just a simple decision to start eating more or less. Recovery is not dependent on willpower, but on ongoing professional treatment and long-term support. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring patience and a supportive environment and team on your side. It is a gradual, step-by-step journey, rather than an instantaneous decision made on one person’s part. Myth: Eating disorders always involve negative body image. Fact: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) does not have to do with body image. Those with ARFID may avoid many foods because of texture, taste, color, or smell, or feared outcomes of eating like choking or vomiting. Like any other eating disorder, ARFID is serious and requires specialized treatment like exposure-response prevention therapy. Myth: Eating disorders only affect White people. Fact: Although Black, Latina/o/x/e, Indigenous/Native, and Asian people are historically underrepresented in studies of eating disorders, large-scale studies have found that rates of eating disorders are the same or higher in all racial and ethnic groups as compared to white individuals (NEDA). Removing racial stereotypes around eating disorders can help to remove barriers that BIPOC individuals commonly face when seeking treatment. Dispelling the Myths: A Path Towards Understanding By addressing and dispelling these myths, we can create a safe space that promotes understanding and empathy. Eating disorders are not choices or phases, but debilitating mental health issues that can affect anyone. Recognizing the seriousness of these disorders is so important in reducing stigma and ensuring that those who are struggling receive the care and support they require. This month and every month, we encourage you to fight misinformation and stick up for those experiencing eating disorders, because knowledge and education can be one of the greatest assets to recovery for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in need of eating disorder support, don’t be afraid to reach out , our team of healthcare professionals are here for you. To learn more about eating disorders and the journey to recovery, download our free eating disorders guide .

Why Eating Disorder Awareness Matters

By Sage Tippie • February 6, 2025

Did you know that February is Eating Disorder Awareness month? Here at Thrive, we're passionate about educating our community and providing tools for eating disorder recognition while offering the specialized support and treatment that those with eating disorders deserve. Join us this month in the conversation around eating disorders and putting an end to harmful stereotypes and misinformation. Let's cover six reasons why building awareness around eating disorders is so crucial. 6 reasons why eating disorder awareness is important 1. Eating disorders are serious. Despite often being termed as a "choice" or a "phase," eating disorders are an incredibly serious psychological condition that require specialized treatment and support. Anorexia Nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric diagnosis in the United States, and every 52 minutes, 1 person dies as a direct consequence of an eating disorder (NEDA) . By spreading awareness and providing early intervention in eating disorder treatment, we can not only change lives, but save them. 2. Eating disorders are more common than you think. 9% of the US population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives and 22% of children and adolescents worldwide show symptoms of disordered eating (NEDA). Since eating disorders can be challenging to detect, many go undiagnosed. Raising awareness for eating disorders and educating our community partners about their symptoms can allow us to catch eating disorders as early as possible and bring these statistics down. 3. Fight harmful eating disorder stereotypes. A common stereotype in association with eating disorders is that of the "thin, white, affluent female," however, anyone is at risk of an eating disorder despite their appearance or background. Stereotypes associated with eating disorders around weight, gender, age and race can create serious barriers to seeking care and major disparities in treatment. People experiencing an eating disorder can face challenges in seeking and receiving treatment or may feel unworthy of recovery when they don’t fit a stereotype, preventing them from gaining needed support and treatment. Promoting diversity and representation through awareness and education can help to break down the harmful stereotypes that have historically surrounded eating disorders. 4. Eating disorder recovery is not a one person job. Family and loved ones’ involvement in eating disorder treatment is crucial for recovery. Family-based therapy (FBT) has proven to be effective in 50% of patients being treated for anorexia nervosa, and is effective in the treatment of other eating disorders as well. A strong support system and steadfast relationships through the struggles associated with eating disorders can lead to more effective and long-lasting recovery. With more awareness and education, people will be better equipped to provide assistance to their loved ones in recovery. 5. You’re not alone. Eating disorders can be an isolating and painful disorder, making those experiencing it feel like they’re the only ones, or that no one understands what they’re going through. Building an informed community through awareness and education can be the first step towards diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. 6. Recovery is Real. Those with eating disorders are capable of long-term recovery through appropriate treatment. Research has found that the earlier intervention takes place in the treatment of eating disorders, the better the odds of long-term recovery are. Awareness and education around eating disorders helps the people that need support find it sooner, resulting in a repaired relationship with food and the body and a fuller life. How can I get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts? To get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts, start by educating yourself about the complexities and different types of eating disorders. By gaining a deeper understanding, you can become a more effective advocate. You can also consider participating in local or national events such as walks, trainings, or online webinars that aim to raise awareness, provide support to those affected, and offer education around eating disorders and their diagnosis. Another simple step for building awareness can be using your social media platform to share factual information, personal stories, or relevant resources that can help demystify eating disorders and reduce stigma. Additionally, supporting legislative efforts that promote mental health education and funding for eating disorder research can help in creating systemic change. By taking these steps, you can contribute to this important movement and work alongside us to foster acceptance, encourage early intervention, and ultimately save lives. Eating Disorder Treatment and Support Thrive offers a free eating disorder guide with more information about eating disorder symptoms and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with eating or body image, don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for support. At Thrive Wellness, we offer a number of treatment options for all ages and genders, including a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program, outpatient therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition services, and more. Don’t wait to get started on treatment, contact us for a free eating disorder assessment today.

Alcohol and Mental Health: How Alcohol Effects Anxiety and Depression

By Thrive • January 24, 2025

You’ve probably heard of “Dry January” or are even participating yourself. More and more people seem to be experimenting with or embracing sobriety from alcohol, but what benefits are there from abstaining? In this article, we’ll explore alcohol’s effects on mental health, the symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and the benefits of cutting back on drinking. Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health Commonly consumed as a way to relax after a long day or to lighten up in social interactions, alcohol is a widely used and culturally accepted drug despite warnings of its dangers by health experts . When a person regularly drinks, it can result in a slew of complications for their physical and mental health. Although often consumed in an attempt to escape stress, sadness, or other unpleasant emotions, alcohol itself is a depressant that can contribute to negative feelings and exacerbate existing mental health conditions, especially with prolonged use. Alcohol influences thoughts, mood, and behaviors by impacting the central nervous system in a way that slows the communication between the brain and the body. Without the ability to process information effectively, the brain isn't able to regulate emotions and consider consequences effectively which may promote unhealthy behaviors, including drinking to excess. Ways that alcohol can affect cognitive functioning include: Lowering inhibitions Contributing to poor judgment Causing confusion Causing lapses in memory Disrupting sleep Contributing to shifts in mood Alcohol and Mental Disorders According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 37% of people with alcohol use disorders also have at least one serious mental illness. Furthermore, alcohol abuse commonly occurs alongside depression and anxiety . Research has shown that those with major depressive disorder and those with generalized anxiety disorder were more likely to report life‐time moderate to severe alcohol use disorder than those without these conditions. Frequently, individuals struggling with depression or anxiety self-medicate by drinking alcohol. Although alcohol may provide temporary relief, it expends the chemicals in the brain which help ward off anxiety and depression. When the initial effects of the drug fade, individuals are typically left feeling more depressed or anxious than they did before they began drinking. Related: Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Substance Abuse Disorders Alcohol Use and Depression The slowed functioning of the brain caused by alcohol can allow individuals to numb to their suffering. As such, those experiencing depression may be inclined to drink to avoid the sadness, pain, and hopelessness associated with depression. This maladaptive coping behavior is so prevalent that research shows a clear relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and major depression. Using alcohol while depressed can be extremely dangerous. Not only can alcohol negatively interact with antidepressants, but it can also place individuals experiencing depression at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior . If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors , you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Alcohol Use and Anxiety According to a study on anxiety and AUD , a person with an anxiety disorder is two to three times more likely to develop an alcohol abuse disorder. When individuals with anxiety drink alcohol, they may feel an initial alleviation of their symptoms as well as a sense of euphoria. However, the symptoms of hangovers and alcohol withdrawal following heavy drinking can heighten feelings of anxiousness and interfere with ones daily obligations, contributing to even more agitation. This feeling of dread and anxiety associated with a hangover is commonly referred to as " hangxiety ," but for those with existing anxiety conditions, this side effect of drinking can feel unbearable. Individuals with anxiety may be driven to drink more to tamper their stress and re-establish the sense of euphoria, resulting in a dangerous cycle of alcohol abuse. Unhealthy Drinking Behaviors and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Most who regularly drink alcohol don't have AUD, which develops when addiction is present. However, alcohol-related side-effects on mental health are still common, and they may still benefit from mental health support . Signs of unhealthy alcohol use include: Feeling a need to consume alcohol to make it through the day Feeling unable to stop consuming alcohol Progressively feeling a need to increase consumption of alcohol Drinking to prevent or alleviate symptoms of hangover or withdrawal Feeling ashamed of ones alcohol consumption Having loved ones express concern over drinking habits AUD is a condition that is often driven by genetics, abuse, trauma, or unhealthy family dynamics. Healing from AUD is possible and it can be treated with the help of mental health professionals and a dedicated treatment plan. Signs of AUD include: Alcohol use that interferes with the ability to carry out daily activities Drinking despite the behaviors adverse effects on their life Often drinking more or for a longer period of time than intended Persistent desire and unsuccessful attempts to curb alcohol use Revolving their schedule around drinking Experiencing strong cravings for alcohol Continuing to drink despite experiencing recurring illness or social issues as a result of alcohol use Giving up activities one used to enjoy in favor of drinking Using alcohol during situations where its physically hazardous to be impaired Continuing to use alcohol despite knowing that it exacerbates a known existing health condition Developing a tolerance for alcohol, or needing more alcohol to feel the same effects Experiencing alcohol withdrawal or drinking more to avoid withdrawal What are the Mental Health Benefits of Going Sober or Drinking Less Alcohol? Reducing or eliminating your alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of mental health benefits, improving your overall quality of life. When going sober or cutting back on your alcohol consumption, some of the benefits you can look forward to are: Improved mood stability, including reduced feelings of depression and anxiety Improved sleep quality Enhanced cognitive function Increased energy levels Improved concentration and productivity Increased self-esteem More authentic social interactions Improved relationships Limiting your alcohol consumption has the capability to change your life for the better, as it can help you establish a healthier mental environment, build better connections, and improve your physical health. Support for Alcohol Abuse and its Mental Health Impacts As humans, it can be uncomfortable for us to process difficult experiences and feel intense emotions. Therapy can help heal the source of your struggles driving alcohol abuse, while also guiding you in implementing healthy strategies for processing painful emotions. Through professional mental health support, you can be empowered to embrace life without having to rely on alcohol. Thrive offers outpatient therapy for substance abuse struggles in addition to other mental and behavioral health conditions. Reach out to learn more. Additional Resources SAMHSAs National Helpline : A free, confidential, and 24/7 service for individuals and families facing mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders, reachable by calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or texting 435748 (HELP4U). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholisms (NIAAA) Treatment for Alcohol Problems : A guide for individuals and their loved ones who are looking for options to address struggles with alcohol use.