Discrimination based on sexuality or gender identity

 Women who identify as lesbian, bisexual and other sexualities experience higher rates of anxiety and depression than heterosexual women. These woman are at greater risk of suicide and self-harm if they experience discrimination, exclusion, bullying and abuse. The risk of mental health issues can also increase if they do not have family or community support.

Transgender women and other gender diverse people have also been shown to experience high rates of anxiety, depression and suicide risk as a result of experiencing barriers to support, discrimination, and exclusion. 

Learn more about depression and anxiety in the LGBTI community

Infertility and perinatal loss

Infertility and miscarriage is an experience that affects many people. For some, the desire to be a parent is not fulfilled. Around one in six couples face infertility, as many as one in four identified pregnancies end in miscarriage4, and one in 100 births result in stillbirth or newborn death.5 These losses can have a devastating impact on the emotional and mental wellbeing of women who have a strong desire to be a mum. Grief associated with these losses is mostly private and not often acknowledged. Without acknowledgement or support, a women can be left feeling lost and alone which can further impact their mental health.

Speaking to someone you trust is critical in maintaining mental health during the stresses and pain of infertility and perinatal loss.

Learn more about grief and loss

Support for perinatal loss

Pregnancy, having a baby and becoming a mother (perinatal)

It's not uncommon for women to experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy and after the birth of a baby. Up to 1 in 10 women experience depression while they are pregnant6 and 1 in 6 women experience depression during the first year after birth.7Anxiety conditions are thought to be as common with many women experiencing both conditions at the same time. Adjusting to this major life change – as well as coping with the day-to-day challenges of early motherhood – can leave some women more likely to experience depression or anxiety particularly if they've experienced depression or anxiety in the past.

Download our Emotional health and wellbeing guide

Learn more about emotional and mental health

Download our Understanding perinatal depression and anxiety flyer

Menopause

Menopause can increase the risk of developing mental health issues. Hormone changes in the years leading to menopause (perimenopause) can cause mood swings and irritability and can contribute to depression and anxiety. Changes in hormonal levels can also result in a range of physical challenges such as hot flushes, night sweats, interrupted sleep patterns and weight gain – all of which can affect mental health.  

Menopause can occur at a stage in life where responsibilities and relationships are also under transition. For some, this involves raising young people or supporting adult children to live independently, or caring for older adults. For many this is also a time of increased work opportunities and responsibilities.  

Women who experience surgical or early menopause can be at even greater risk of depression. It is important to speak to your doctor about your wellbeing as well as your physical health. Treatment and support is available.

Activities such as eating well and keeping active – and doing the things you enjoy – are key to improving your wellbeing during menopause.