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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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