Did you know one in five people will be affected by mental illness in their lifetime? Like physical health, good mental health is essential to everyone’s well-being. May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, so we are taking the opportunity to focus on depression in women, as it is one of the most common mental health issues women face.
While mental health issues can plague both genders, they affect men and women in very different ways. It’s estimated that 12 million women experience depression each year in the United States. This occurs at twice the rate of men.
Following childbirth, a reported 10 to 15 percent of new mothers meet the criteria for major depression, with anxiety typically being a prominent feature.
Those suffering from depression may not be aware of the signs. If you suspect a friend or loved one has depression, postpartum or otherwise, assist them in seeking medical attention immediately. Left untreated, depression can be a life-threatening condition and may last for many months or longer. Treatment works. Studies have shown that 80 percent of patients noticed a significant mood improvement during and after treatment.
For all of Care New England’s behavioral health programs, including Butler Hospital, Kent Hospital, and The Providence Center, go to carenewengland.org/services/behavioral-health.
Margaret Howard, PhD, is the division director of the Center for Women’s Behavioral Health and the associate director of the Women’s Mental Health Fellowship at Women & Infants Hospital. She is also a professor of psychiatry and human behavior and medicine, and clinician educator at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and should not serve as medical advice, consultation, or diagnosis. If you have a medical concern, please consult your healthcare provider, or seek immediate medical treatment.