Gender-based discrimination or bias is referred to as sexism. While it disproportionately impacts women, it can harm people of all genders.
Sexism leads to social and psychological strain, which can negatively affect a person’s mental health. It can also create barriers to mental health treatment.
If you’re in need of inclusive support, look for therapists who have experience with women’s mental health or LGBTQIA+ affirming care.
Sexism is a form of bias that results in unfair treatment on the basis of sex, gender identity, gender expression, or perceived gender. Anyone can be affected by sexism. But it has disproportionately harmed women and other marginalized identities. While discrimination against women is technically illegal in the U.S., research shows that gender-based inequality remains a widespread problem across the world.
It’d be impossible to calculate all the ways that sexism hurts people. But we know that it can damage mental health and create barriers to life-saving care. Regardless of your gender, you can be an ally and an advocate for change. Learning more about sexism and mental health can help ensure that you or someone you care about gets the inclusive, effective support they deserve.
A note on language: Throughout this article, we’ll be discussing sexism and women’s mental health. However, we want to acknowledge the limitations of this language. Sexism can affect anyone, regardless of their gender identity or expression. Historically, it’s been falsely conceptualized as a natural response to men’s superiority. The resulting subjugation has caused significant and ongoing harm to women. But we want to affirm that nonbinary people, LGBTQIA+ people, and other marginalized groups can also be victims of sexism.
Sexism and women’s mental health
Gender-based discrimination can be seen throughout modern society. For example, as of 2024, women experienced the biggest annual drop in the gender earnings ratio since 1966. For the first time in a long time, the wage gap is widening instead of shrinking.
Because of ongoing sexism and misogyny (the hatred of women), women don’t have equal access to power, influence, or resources. This imbalance creates increased psychological and social distress and may make women more prone to:
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Barriers to mental healthcare for women
Living in a male-dominated culture means that the scientific research we rely on to inform our understanding of mental health has excluded women. For a long time, women were considered the “weaker sex.” Their suffering was often dismissed by medical and mental health professionals.
In addition to worsening women’s mental health, sexism can create treatment barriers. For example, women continue to bear the brunt of caregiving and household responsibilities, even if they work outside the home. They may be unable to get the treatment they need because they can’t get child care, take time off from work, or afford the high cost of care.
Women may also experience gender-based bias from their providers. Medical professionals don’t always receive adequate training on women’s health. So while it may be unintentional, they may minimize or misunderstand women’s symptoms. For example, they might say mood changes are due to hormonal fluctuations when that’s not the underlying issue. Misdiagnosis can worsen outcomes because it prevents people from getting timely, effective care.
How sexism harms men’s mental health
The truth is that sexism affects men too. Growing up, boys are surrounded by patriarchal messages about what it means to “be a real man.” Some learn that emotions are a sign of weakness and that it’s better to “man up” than ask for help.
These gendered norms are deeply harmful for everyone, including people who identify as men. Many men, just like women, struggle with their mental health. But they’re less likely to be diagnosed or ask for help. This may help explain why men are four times as likely to die by suicide* than women.
*The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support with trained crisis counselors. If you or a loved one is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, please call or text 988.
If experiencing a life-threatening emergency or you need immediate help, please call 911.
Finding inclusive mental health services
To find inclusive mental health services for women, search online directories or telehealth platforms. Look for therapists who specialize in “women’s issues” or “women’s mental health.” You can also ask an existing provider for a referral.
Keep in mind that you can always ask prospective providers about their experience working with women and diverse gender identities. You can inquire about any feminist principles they use in their practice or how they think about the gender spectrum and mental health.
If at any point you experience misogyny or sexism while receiving mental healthcare, it’s time to switch providers. Remember, you deserve effective, affirming mental healthcare, no matter your gender.
If you feel like your concerns are being minimized or that you’re not being heard, trust your instincts. Other providers will listen, validate your experiences, and offer a more supportive experience.
Healing starts when clients feel seen and validated. Therapy that challenges harmful gender messages and supports self-compassion helps people reconnect with their values and sense of worth.
Brandy Chalmers, LPC
Clinical reviewer
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Sexism can cause significant psychological and social harm to people of all genders. This may be why women are more likely to struggle with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, and other mental health concerns. Sexism can also create treatment barriers and make it harder for women to access the support they deserve. No matter the issue you’re facing, know that you deserve inclusive mental healthcare.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we're here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
Brandy Chalmers, LPC
Having faced challenges like childhood abuse, neglect, and the loss of her father to suicide, Brandy Chalmers is deeply passionate about providing compassionate care. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Registered Play Therapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy.
Brandy also teaches at a university, sharing her expertise with future mental health professionals. With over a decade of experience in settings like inpatient care and private practice, she specializes in helping clients with perfectionism, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, and life changes.
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Rula's editorial team is on a mission to make science-backed mental health insights accessible and practical for every person seeking to better understand or improve mental wellness.
Members of Rula’s clinical leadership team and other expert providers contribute to all published content, offering guidance on themes and insights based on their firsthand experience in the field. Every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by a clinician before publishing.
