How to Support Women’s Mental Health

There’s no one “right” way to embody womanhood. Women are an incredibly diverse and expansive group of people, with their own unique needs, perspectives, and preferences. 

While we often celebrate women for qualities like strength, compassion, or beauty, we must also make time to honor their full humanity—one that champions struggle and strength. Compassion and a commanding presence. Women are broader and more complex than a single adjective, definition, or stereotype. The complexity is worth honoring. 

Whether you identify as a woman or an ally, you can champion and honor others by finding ways to support women’s mental health and well-being. 

4 ways anyone can support women’s mental health

Empowering the women in our lives goes beyond office walls—it’s a movement that resonates in our personal connections, too. From workplace initiatives to advocating for individuals in our communities and family, here are some ways that you can show up to support women’s mental health:

#1 Broaden your definition of womanhood 

• Respect and make space for women of all backgrounds—trans women, women of color, older women, women with disabilities, and more.
• Honor women’s choices, especially those that go against traditional stereotypes of what a woman “should” or “shouldn’t” do.
• Reflect on double standards you might hold and how they lead to discrimination—for example, labeling assertive women as “aggressive” or expressive women as being “too much.”

#2 Ask and listen 

• Because everyone is different, you should ask the women in your life what support looks like for them. 
• In conversations, be an empathetic and active listener. Even if you can’t fully relate or have never experienced what they’re sharing, simply acknowledging that you hear and believe them allows them to feel seen and validated.
• Remember, you don’t need to fix the problem or give advice. Often, your comfort and presence are enough.

#3 Amplify the work and voices of diverse women

• Invest in women-owned businesses, consume media created by women, and engage in activism efforts that support women’s rights.
• At work, make room for someone else to speak up, especially if you’re a leader people listen to. Intervene when women are interrupted, and show an interest in their ideas.  

#4 Notice discrimination and speak up 

• Examine your workplace’s culture, policies, and spaces through the lens of women’s mental health. Reflect on ways your workplace might create barriers for women, intentionally or not. 
• Support female colleagues in their pursuit of more inclusive work policies, like prioritizing women in leadership, parental leave, and fertility care.

4 ways women can support their mental health 

#1 Be who you are wherever you are

For some, work and social circles can come with an unspoken pressure to fit in. In turn, you may feel like you need to tone down your sensitivity, emotions, or unique perspective. But honoring your identity means choosing how you want to show up in your life. Sometimes, that can look like separating yourself from the belief that you must blend in to put others at ease. Other times, it can mean accepting that you are the author of your own story. 

#2 Practice self-compassion

Ever talk to a friend who could use some words of comfort? What did that sound like? Try offering yourself the same compassion that you would give to a loved one in need of encouragement.

Despite how stressful some experiences may be, women are often met with messages to “stay strong” and “push through.” In reality, it’s OK and healthy to need space to process the burdens or obstacles you face and the feelings you have about your experiences—good and bad. 

#3 Reconsider self-care

There’s no “right” way to practice self-care. Everyone’s approach is different, which means it can be hard to know where to start. To begin, try asking yourself the following questions:

• What is one thing you need right now?
• How can you get movement in today?
• What is something that brings you joy?
• Who is someone you can connect with?
• How can you be patient with yourself? 
• What makes you feel safe?

#4 Set boundaries and protect your space

Intentionally surrounding yourself with safe, supportive people can work wonders for your mental health. Instead of spending time with people who you feel are emotionally draining, try hosting meals or coffee chats with people who support your definition of womanhood, empowerment, and community. 

Connect with a mental health expert who’s right for you 

Your health matters, but it’s not always easy to ask for help, set boundaries, or speak up. This is where a Lyra mental health provider can help. 

Therapy isn’t only for those experiencing a mental health crisis or having a “breakdown.” Anyone can benefit from prioritizing their emotional wellness. Professional support can also be helpful when you’re struggling to make changes that you know will improve your well-being.