Voices of Woman

Women are about twice as likely to experience depression and anxiety disorders as men. Yet for a long time, much of the research on mental health conditions has focused primarily on men. What does that mean for how we understand and treat symptoms in women?

During her presentation at Women’s Health Day, Iris Sommer explained why it is important to take gender differences seriously in psychiatry. In her research, she examines how hormones, life stages, and biological differences influence the brain and mental health.

She discussed why women may be more susceptible to depression and anxiety during certain periods of life, and what this means for early detection and better treatment. It becomes clear that good care starts with a better understanding of the female brain.