Women's Mental Health Resources

Genetic factors play a somewhat larger role in depression for women than for men.

Rather than the usual male tendency to fight-or-flee, women seem to 'tend-or-befriend' under stress.

12-step groups don't work for everyone. Women, especially, may have trouble with the emphasis on powerlessness. Groups like Women for Sobriety and Rational Recovery provide alternative approaches.

Girls steer away from careers in math, science and engineering because they view science as a solitary rather than a social occupation, according to a University of Michigan psychologist.

New research findings verify that income changes directly affect depressive symptoms in women during the first three years after childbirth.

One in three women seeking emergency medical care in inner city hospitals has suffered domestic violence at some point in her life, based on findings on questionnaire responses from 198 women seeking emergency medical treatment at one inner city hospital during the course of 22 nursing shifts.

Women who are in satisfying marriages have a health advantage over unmarried women or those in unsatisfying marriages, according to a new study. It finds that women in good marriages were less likely to develop risk factors that lead to cardiovascular diseases.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is much more severe then PMS. Should you take a medication for it?

In May of 2000 the US Food and Drug Administration approved the first therapy for women who experience reduced sensation, lubrication and ability to achieve or sustain orgasm during sex. It's more than just a vibrator.

Women with schizophrenia have unique healthcare needs, and providers should consider gender issues when considering treatment options, a new study suggests.

Research by David Spiegel, M.D. found that metastatic breast cancer patients lived twice as long if they participated in supportive-expressive group therapy. The hormone cortisol has been implicated in this effect.

A disorder which affects women differently than man and can exacerbate premenstrual symptoms.

The National Institute for Drug Abuse produced this beautifully illustrated brochure to educate women on drug abuse issues.

Women doctors, teachers and other professionals may have a tougher time adjusting to retirement than do women who hold jobs customarily considered nonprofessional, such as clerical positions and cafeteria help, according to a 2003 study.

Brigham Young University and Stanford researchers wanted to investigate whether men really are from Mars and women really are from Venus.

Research finds that an optimistic outlook improves likelihood of delivering a healthy baby in women at high medical risk.

There's lots of data here on rape and other crimes.  The focus is on Arizona, but there are national statistics too. Not easy on the eyes, though. 

A site that examines the link between synthetic estrogen-like chemicals in the environment on PMS. Natural progesterone is proposed as a solution.

A site with a free download that claims to help women calculate fertility and moods based on their menstrual period.

A site from Quebec which sells a menstrual calendar but also provides lots of free information with an international flavour.

Describes itself as "an innovative resource in education and treatment for eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression and women's issues".

A site is dedicated to women's mental health, and addiction issues.

From the US National Health Resources and Services Administration.

Great resources for women's health issues and policy.