Mental Health in Women

Abstract

Mental health illness has been increasing worldwide. The prevalence of mental illness and is higher among females than among males. It is estimated that one in 5 women experience a common mental health disorder. This article highlights gender disparities in the risk, prevalence, and presentation of different mental health disorders. Nearly all survivors of critical illness experience 1 or more domains of the post–intensive care syndrome. We review different mental health disorders including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and post–intensive care syndrome, and medications used to manage these disorders. Delirium in the intensive care unit can be misdiagnosed as a primary psychiatric disorder and is important to distinguish from each other. We also highlight the inadequacy of surveillance and recognition of mental health disorders in the intensive care unit, leading to missed opportunities to properly manage these important psychiatric conditions.