Women’s mental health is in crisis. Globally, women are nearly twice as likely as men to suffer from anxiety and depression. According to National Crime Records Bureau, In India, they account for 36.6 per cent of all suicides, with young women aged 18-39 most vulnerable Yet, stigma and societal taboos continue to prevent them from seeking help.

On International Women’s Day, Mpower, an initiative of the Aditya Birla Education Trust led by Neerja Birla, presents its ‘Unveiling the Silent Struggle’ data drawing insights from its extensive mental health interventions for women across India. Mpower Centre Head Dr. Harshida Bhansali, Senior Psychiatrist shared: “Mumbai is navigating a complex landscape of challenges—ranging from relationship concerns, separation, and emotional dysregulation to parenting struggles, including raising children with emotional difficulties, special needs, or non-suicidal self-injury. Issues of autonomy in decision-making, financial dependence, single parenting, fertility, and hormonal concerns further add to their mental health burden.

“Despite these challenges, mental health remains a silent struggle for many women, often deprioritized amidst family and societal expectations. Seeking timely intervention is crucial. With the right support—whether through therapy, psychiatric care, or building coping strategies—women can regain control of their emotional well-being, strengthen their resilience, and lead more fulfilling lives.”