Women's mental health problems rise

New figures show that more women are suffering from mental health problems, reports The Independent.

The number of women being referred to a NHS psychiatrist is rising faster then men. In the last year the number of referrals rose 3.4%, with over 70% of that number being made up of women.

The figures, published by the NHS Information Centre, also showed that since the mid 90s there has been a rise of around 12% in the number of women who experience depression or anxiety, but no increase in the figures for men.

It’s believe the rise has been caused by women living longer, and having to juggle work and family responsibilities, which has become even more difficult due to the recession.

A survey carried out in 2003 by the charity Women at the Crossroads showed that money issues are a worry for many, particularly due to divorce, lower pay, and being expected to do more round the home.

Read more about women’s mental health here…