In society, it is often perceived that women are more adept at self-reflection and emotional awareness than men, which leads to a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression among them. While women frequently face issues like obsessive thoughts and rumination, men tend to struggle with completing suicides, making it the leading cause of death for men under 45.

The disparity in mental health statistics suggests that women may feel more overwhelmed, while men often face dire consequences from their depressive states. These patterns can likely be attributed to biological differences—such as hormone levels—as well as the persistent sexism and gender norms that influence our experiences. Such norms impose expectations on women that can lead to self-doubt regarding their competence, appearance, and overall self-esteem.

At the same time, societal pressures weigh heavily on men, compelling them to suppress vulnerability, pursue financial stability, and meet the modern standards of success.

According to MentalHealth.org.uk:

• Women are statistically more likely than men to experience common mental health issues and are nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with anxiety disorders.
• Approximately 19.1% of women exhibit symptoms of clinical depression, compared to 12.2% of men.
• Around 78% of suicide victims each year are male, while 22% are female.
• Mental health issues affect about 10% of mothers and 6% of fathers at any given moment.

Regardless of gender, the charity Mind states that one in four individuals globally will encounter some form of mental health challenge within a year. Therefore, even if you haven’t experienced mental health issues yourself, someone close to you likely is, or will be, dealing with such challenges this year.

Research indicates that men and women may have different triggers for anxiety and depression. Men often report stress related to work and financial pressures, while women may be more sensitive to relational conflicts or health concerns affecting themselves or loved ones.

This raises the question: Do these findings validate traditional gender roles where men are seen as providers and women as caretakers? While the research doesn't entirely confirm these stereotypes, it does highlight how our biology and societal conditioning can affect our priorities and fears. Women may pursue career advancements as much as men, but interpersonal challenges tend to lead to more pronounced mental health issues. Conversely, men may face depression primarily due to societal pressures to succeed professionally.

Moreover, studies show that men often develop depression as a longer-term response to stress, while women may experience it more immediately following stressful events. This distinction could explain the higher rates of depression in women at any given time, as men may struggle with depression that arises only after a significant period post-stress.

These gender-related trends prompt critical questions: Do our genders shape our aspirations and fears? Or have societal expectations—pressuring men to achieve and women to nurture—profoundly influenced our mental health experiences, even in contemporary society?

While I won't argue whether these gender expectations are justified, they undeniably exist and impact our thoughts and actions, regardless of individual beliefs. Even the most progressive individuals can be affected by these gendered insecurities, shaping our mental health landscape.

When it comes to addressing mental health, it’s vital to recognize the seriousness of all issues while approaching them with empathy. But do these gender differences create additional challenges? Or do they merely reflect the broader societal norms that influence mental health experiences for all genders?

While some may argue for a direct focus on addressing mental health problems without gender distinctions, it’s essential to understand the underlying causes rather than simply addressing the symptoms. Just as you wouldn’t merely place a bucket under a leaky faucet, we must seek to identify and rectify the root issues contributing to mental health struggles.

Ultimately, the differences in mental health experiences among genders may arise from a combination of biological, societal, and environmental factors. From inherent instincts and hormonal influences to upbringing and societal expectations, numerous elements play a role in these discrepancies.

What remains crucial is recognizing that anyone can experience depression for various reasons, sometimes without any apparent cause. All experiences are valid, and we have a collective responsibility to deepen our understanding of this complex yet treatable condition, exploring diverse approaches for prevention and management.

Roxanna is a British-Iranian content writer specializing in human rights, identities, health, and welfare. With a languages degree from King’s College London, a Master’s degree in European Studies from LSE, and a background in health advocacy and political PR, she aims to amplify visibility and foster discussions on ethical, psychological, and sociocultural issues worldwide. Visit her at http://roxannaazimy.com or follow her on Twitter: @roxannayasmin.