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Mental health is an important part of overall wellbeing at every stage of a woman's life. From adolescence and early adulthood to pregnancy, motherhood, menopause and later life, women can experience different emotional, social and physical pressures that may affect their mental wellbeing.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 25% of Australian women aged 16–85 experienced a mental illness in the previous 12 months, while 44% had experienced mental illness at some point in their lifetime, based on the 2020–2022 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing. Women also reported higher rates of anxiety and affective disorders than men.
Understanding women's mental health is therefore not simply about recognising mental illness. It is also about noticing changes early, talking openly about emotional wellbeing and knowing when professional support may be appropriate.
What Can Affect Women’s Mental Health?
Mental health is influenced by a combination of biological, psychological and social factors. Women may experience mental health challenges in connection with:
These factors do not affect every woman in the same way. Two people experiencing similar circumstances may have very different emotional responses.
Common Mental Health Concerns in Women
Anxiety
Anxiety can involve persistent worry, nervousness or a feeling that something bad may happen. Physical symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, restlessness, muscle tension or a racing heartbeat.
Occasional anxiety is a normal human response. However, when anxiety becomes persistent or starts affecting work, relationships, sleep or daily activities, it may be worth discussing with a GP.
Depression
Depression is more than feeling sad after a difficult day. It can involve persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, low energy, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating and feelings of hopelessness.
Women may experience depression at different stages of life, and recognising symptoms early can make it easier to seek appropriate support.
Stress and Emotional Exhaustion
Managing work, family responsibilities, relationships and personal expectations can sometimes become overwhelming.
Long-term stress may affect sleep, concentration, mood and physical wellbeing. Recognising when everyday stress is becoming difficult to manage is an important part of self-care.
Women’s Mental Health Through Different Life Stages
Mental health needs can change throughout life.
Adolescence and Young Adulthood
Young women may experience academic pressure, social expectations, relationship challenges, body-image concerns and changes in family or work circumstances.
Early support can help prevent difficulties from becoming more disruptive to everyday life.
Pregnancy and After Childbirth
Pregnancy and the period following childbirth involve major physical, emotional and lifestyle changes.
Some women experience significant anxiety or depression during pregnancy or after giving birth. Changes in mood should not simply be dismissed as a normal part of becoming a parent.
Speaking with a GP, midwife or other qualified healthcare professional can help determine whether additional support is needed.
Midlife and Menopause
Menopause can involve physical symptoms as well as changes in sleep, mood and emotional wellbeing. Some women may experience increased anxiety, low mood or difficulty coping during this transition.
If these changes are persistent or interfering with daily life, discussing them with a healthcare professional can be helpful.
When Should You Seek Mental Health Support?
You don't need to wait until your mental health becomes overwhelming before asking for help.
Consider talking to your GP if you notice:
Your GP can discuss your symptoms, assess your mental health and help determine what type of support may be appropriate.
What Is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
For eligible Australians diagnosed with a mental health condition, a Mental Health Treatment Plan can provide a structured approach to treatment.
Healthdirect explains that a mental health treatment plan identifies treatment options, available support services and goals agreed between the patient and doctor.
Under the current Better Access arrangements, eligible patients can receive Medicare benefits for up to 10 individual and 10 group mental health services per calendar year, subject to the relevant requirements. The initial course can include up to six services, with further services available following review where appropriate.
Importantly, a Mental Health Treatment Plan is not simply a form. Current Australian Government guidance describes it as a document that should include an assessment of the mental disorder, an outcome measurement tool where clinically appropriate and a provisional or formal diagnosis.
How Can a GP Support Women's Mental Health?
A GP can be an important first point of contact when you're experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties.
Depending on your circumstances, your GP may:
Mental health care should be individualised. What works for one person may not be appropriate for another.
Small Steps Can Support Mental Wellbeing
Professional support is important when you need it, but everyday habits can also contribute to mental wellbeing.
Consider making time for:
The Australian Government also highlights healthy eating, regular exercise, adequate sleep and reducing alcohol, tobacco and other drug use as lifestyle factors that can support mental health.
These habits are not substitutes for professional treatment when someone has a mental health condition, but they can form part of a broader approach to wellbeing.
Why Talking About Women’s Mental Health Matters
Mental health concerns can sometimes remain hidden because women may feel pressure to continue managing work, family and personal responsibilities despite struggling emotionally.
Asking for help is not a sign of weakness.
In fact, recent Australian data shows that women are significant users of mental health services. In 2024–25, females aged 25–34 had the largest increase in the rate of people receiving Medicare-subsidised mental health services over the previous decade.
Seeking support early can be an important step towards understanding what you're experiencing and finding appropriate care.
Women's Mental Health Care at AFMDP
At Aspley Family Medical & Dental Practice (AFMDP), mental health care can begin with a conversation with a GP.
If you're experiencing anxiety, depression, stress or other mental health concerns, a GP can assess your situation and discuss appropriate next steps. Where clinically appropriate and eligible, a Mental Health Treatment Plan may form part of your ongoing care.
A plan can help provide a structured pathway towards professional support while giving you and your healthcare provider clear goals to work towards.
You can learn more about Mental Health Care Plans at AFMDP.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is women's mental health?
Women's mental health refers to the emotional, psychological and social wellbeing of women throughout different stages of life.
What are common mental health concerns among women?
Anxiety, depression and stress are among the common mental health concerns experienced by women. Other conditions can also occur and require professional assessment.
When should I speak to a GP?
If changes in your mood, thoughts, sleep or behaviour persist or begin affecting your everyday life, relationships or work, consider speaking with a GP.
Can a GP help with anxiety or depression?
Yes. A GP can assess your symptoms, discuss treatment options and refer you to appropriate mental health professionals where needed.
What is a Mental Health Treatment Plan?
It is a structured plan for eligible people with a diagnosed mental health condition that identifies treatment needs, goals and appropriate support.
Your Mental Health Deserves Attention
Women's mental health can change throughout life, and there is no single experience that defines what good mental wellbeing looks like.
Whether you're dealing with ongoing stress, anxiety, low mood or challenges associated with a major life transition, you don't have to manage everything alone.
Recognising the signs and having an honest conversation with your GP can be an important first step.
AFMDP supports women's health and mental wellbeing through personalised GP care in Aspley and the surrounding Brisbane community. If you would like to discuss your mental health or learn whether a Mental Health Treatment Plan may be appropriate for you, visit AFMDP Mental Health Care Plan.
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Obesity is more than a concern about body weight or appearance. It can affect many aspects of health and may increase the risk of developing several long-term medical conditions. Understanding these obesity-related conditions can help people recognise potential health risks early and seek appropriate medical support.
In Australia, overweight and obesity are significant public health concerns. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), around 67% of Australian adults were living with overweight or obesity in 2022–24. AIHW also reports that overweight, including obesity, was the leading risk factor contributing to ill health and death in Australia in 2024.
Importantly, obesity is a complex health issue influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, environment, lifestyle, medications and other health conditions. It should therefore be approached with understanding rather than stigma.
What Are Obesity-Related Conditions?
Obesity-related conditions are health problems for which excess body weight can be an important risk factor.
These conditions can affect different parts of the body, including the heart, blood vessels, liver, kidneys, joints and respiratory system.
Some commonly associated conditions include:
The risk is not the same for everyone, and having obesity does not mean that a person will necessarily develop these conditions. However, understanding the association can encourage appropriate preventive care.
Type 2 Diabetes
One of the most important obesity-related conditions is type 2 diabetes.
Excess weight can be associated with insulin resistance, making it more difficult for the body to regulate blood glucose effectively. Over time, persistently high blood glucose can affect blood vessels and organs.
According to the AIHW, overweight and obesity were responsible for an estimated 55% of the disease burden from type 2 diabetes in Australia in 2024.
Regular monitoring of blood glucose, along with appropriate lifestyle and medical management, can be important for people at increased risk.
High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease
High blood pressure may not always cause noticeable symptoms, which is one reason regular health checks are valuable.
Overweight and obesity can contribute to cardiovascular risk, including conditions such as hypertensive heart disease and coronary heart disease.
AIHW estimates that in 2024, overweight and obesity contributed to:
Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and other cardiovascular risk factors can form an important part of preventive healthcare.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Kidney health can also be affected by factors associated with obesity.
Chronic kidney disease can develop gradually and may not cause obvious symptoms during its early stages. This makes appropriate monitoring particularly important for people who have risk factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
AIHW estimates that overweight and obesity contributed to 43% of chronic kidney disease burden in Australia in 2024.
Joint Problems and Osteoarthritis
Carrying excess weight can place additional physical stress on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.
People living with obesity may therefore have an increased risk of joint problems, including osteoarthritis. Joint pain can also make physical activity more difficult, potentially creating a cycle in which movement becomes increasingly challenging.
A healthcare professional can help develop an appropriate approach to physical activity and joint health based on an individual's circumstances.
Sleep-Related Breathing Problems
Weight can also be associated with sleep-related breathing problems, including obstructive sleep apnoea.
Possible signs may include:
Not everyone who snores has sleep apnoea, but persistent symptoms are worth discussing with a GP.
Some Cancers
Overweight and obesity are also associated with an increased risk of several cancers.
The relationship between body weight and cancer is complex, and cancer risk is influenced by many factors. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and attending recommended screening programs can form part of an overall approach to cancer prevention and early detection.
AIHW's latest analysis links overweight and obesity with 30 diseases, including 17 types of cancer.
Why Early Health Checks Matter
One of the challenges with chronic disease is that some conditions can develop gradually without obvious symptoms.
For example, high blood pressure and some stages of kidney disease may not produce noticeable warning signs.
Regular health checks can provide an opportunity to monitor factors such as:
|
Health Check |
Why It May Matter |
|
Blood pressure |
Helps identify hypertension |
|
Blood glucose |
Helps assess diabetes risk |
|
Cholesterol |
Helps assess cardiovascular risk |
|
Weight and BMI |
Provides information about weight status |
|
Waist measurement |
Can help assess metabolic risk |
|
Kidney function |
May help identify kidney problems |
BMI can be useful as one measure of adult weight status, but it is not a complete assessment of an individual's health. The Australian Government notes that BMI does not account for factors such as body shape or muscle mass, and waist circumference can provide additional information about chronic disease risk.
Managing Obesity Is About More Than Weight Loss
It is important to remember that healthcare should focus on overall health rather than weight alone.
For some people, appropriate management may include:
The right approach depends on the individual.
There is no single diet, exercise plan or treatment that works for everyone.
When Should You Speak to a GP?
Consider speaking with your GP if you are concerned about your weight or have risk factors for chronic disease.
A GP may help assess your overall health and discuss appropriate monitoring or management.
You should also seek medical advice if you experience symptoms such as persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, excessive thirst or urination, unexplained changes in weight, ongoing joint pain, chest discomfort or significant sleep problems.
Some symptoms can have many different causes, so they should not automatically be attributed to obesity.
Obesity and Chronic Disease Management at AFMDP
At Aspley Family Medical & Dental Practice (AFMDP), chronic disease management focuses on personalised care, regular follow-ups and proactive management of health risks.
AFMDP lists obesity-related conditions alongside conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, asthma and arthritis as conditions that may require ongoing management. The practice also highlights monitoring areas including blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol, weight and BMI.
A personalised approach is important because obesity-related health risks can vary significantly from one person to another.
Rather than focusing only on a number on the scales, ongoing healthcare can look at the broader picture—including existing medical conditions, lifestyle factors, family history and individual health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common obesity-related conditions?
Commonly associated conditions include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, osteoarthritis, sleep-related breathing problems and some cancers.
Does obesity always cause chronic disease?
No. Obesity is a risk factor, not a guarantee that someone will develop a particular condition. Individual risk depends on many factors.
Can obesity-related conditions be prevented?
Some risk can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices, appropriate medical care and management of risk factors. However, not every cause of obesity or chronic disease is preventable.
Is BMI enough to assess health?
No. BMI is one useful measure for adults but does not capture every aspect of health. Waist circumference and other clinical assessments may provide additional information.
How can a GP help with obesity-related health risks?
A GP can assess your overall health, identify potential risk factors, monitor existing conditions and discuss appropriate lifestyle or medical management options.
Take a Health-Focused Approach
Obesity-related conditions can affect several areas of health, but early awareness and appropriate ongoing care can make a meaningful difference.
The goal should not be about judging body size. It should be about understanding individual health risks, identifying conditions early and supporting sustainable improvements in wellbeing.
If you are concerned about your weight or your risk of developing a chronic condition, talking with your GP can be a useful first step.
AFMDP provides personalised chronic disease management for patients in Aspley and surrounding Brisbane Northside communities. Explore the practice's Chronic Disease Management services to learn more.
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