Women’s Mental Health

Research indicates a connection between mental health and substance abuse, regardless of gender. While it is important to point out that one disorder does not “cause” the other, they are often highly intertwined, share symptoms and often, share similar root causes. It is generally difficult and sometimes impossible for mental health providers to clearly define which struggle came first. According to researchers, there are three key reasons why substance use disorders and addiction are so often connected. The first possible connection is common risk factors. Mental health conditions and substance use disorders can, and often do, share a range of risk factors. Some of the most common include genetic factors, environmental factors, trauma, stress, and other preexisting physical or psychological health conditions.

Another potential link is a previously diagnosed (or undiagnosed) mental health condition. Some mental health conditions are known to increase one’s risk for developing a substance use disorder. It is believed that individuals who struggle with mental health symptoms, regardless of their severity, may turn to drugs or alcohol to help manage their symptoms. This practice, known as self-medication, may be helpful at first as it can significantly reduce the intensity and severity of mental health symptoms, making them easier to manage. Unfortunately, this solution is only temporary, and symptoms often quickly return, sometimes worse than before. Additionally, some mental health disorders inevitably lead to a notable change in the structure and function of the brain. This may also increase one's risk for developing a substance use disorder as drug and alcohol abuse impact how the brain functions. This can lead to changes in how the brain processes emotions such as joy, pleasure, and rewards, making them difficult to achieve without the assistance of drugs or alcohol.

The third factor is that substance use and substance use disorders often contribute to the development of various mental health conditions. As previously noted above, chronic substance use can change how specific areas of the brain work. These areas are the same areas also impacted by other mental health conditions, including anxiety, impulse control disorders, mood disorders, and schizophrenia. When someone who may be predisposed to these illnesses uses drugs or alcohol, it can increase their risk of developing a mental health condition.

Men and women are different in many ways, and mental health is no exception. Although men and women experience mental health conditions and struggles with substance abuse, they experience each differently. A vast body of research shows that women are more likely to be diagnosed with disorders such as depression or anxiety. In contrast, men are more frequently diagnosed with antisocial disorders, personality disorders, or substance abuse disorders. Additionally, data provided by studies conducted through the American Psychological Association suggest men and women develop mental health conditions and substance use disorders differently and for different reasons. However, one thing that does not seem to change between the genders is the link between mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Also referred to as a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis condition, millions of American adults of both genders struggle with addictions to drugs or alcohol while simultaneously trying to manage intense and overwhelming symptoms of a range of mental health conditions.