Utah Women’s depression Rates Significantly Higher Than Men’s, Report Finds
women have been diagnosed with depression, compared to 19.5% of men. Learn about the factors and potential solutions.">
A new study reveals a significant disparity in mental health between men and women in Utah: 32.5% of women in Utah have received a depression diagnosis from a healthcare provider, compared to just 19.5% of men.
Key Findings on Women’s Mental Health in Utah
The 2025 Utah women and Mental Health report, published by the Utah Women and Leadership Project at utah State University, highlights this concerning trend and updates a similar report from 2017. The report emphasizes that mental health conditions manifest differently in women compared to men.
Self-reported data indicates that women in Utah are more likely to experience more than seven days of poor mental health per month than men. This is notably pronounced in the 18-to-34 age bracket, where 44.6% of women reported over seven days of poor mental health, compared to 30.2% of men in the same age group.
Did You know? The Utah Department of Health and Human Services encourages regular mental health check-ins through its HealthyMinds initiative.
Factors Contributing to Higher Depression Rates
The report suggests that several factors contribute to the increased rates of mental health issues among women in Utah. These include higher rates of adverse childhood experiences, unwanted touching or rape during teenage years, and sexual assault. Furthermore,while women benefit more from strong social support networks than men,they are also more vulnerable to the negative effects of a lack of support.
Gender-based discrimination may also play a role, possibly leading to women seeking less help or experiencing dissatisfaction with mental health services. Data also indicates that LGBTQ+ women report poorer mental health more frequently than heterosexual women; over half of LGBTQ+ women surveyed in 2020 and 2022 reported experiencing more than seven days of poor mental health in a month.
Proposed Solutions and Community Action
The report emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to address these disparities. Researchers suggest that increasing health insurance coverage, particularly for minorities, improving access to care, reducing stigma, enhancing social connections and safety, and addressing violence against women are crucial steps.
While multiple agencies in Utah are working to improve mental health services, the report notes that current plans lack strategies for improving belonging and social safety. The report encourages community leaders to focus on creating connected neighborhoods, providing public spaces and nature access, offering leisure and recreational opportunities, and even building pet-friendly spaces to support women’s mental health.
Pro Tip: Creating pet-friendly public spaces can significantly improve social interaction and reduce feelings of isolation,especially for women.
National Trends and utah’s standing
The report’s 2025 update highlights the evolution of mental health conditions in response to national and global events. Nationally, the percentage of people living with mental illness increased from 17.9% in 2015 to 22.8% in 2023. The percentage of people with serious mental illness also increased from 4% to 5.7% National Institute of Mental Health.
According to a 2023 national report, Utah has the second-highest number of adults with mental illness, at 29.9%.State health department data indicates that poor mental health trends have steadily increased over the past decade,with only a slight decrease from the peaks following a significant increase during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Mental Health Statistics in Utah
| Category | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Women diagnosed with depression | 32.5% |
| Men diagnosed with depression | 19.5% |
| Women (18-34) reporting >7 poor mental health days | 44.6% |
| Adults with mental illness in Utah (2023) | 29.9% |
Understanding depression and Mental Health
Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It can affect how you feel, think, and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems Mayo Clinic. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health is important at every stage of life.
Approximately 21% of adults in the U.S. experienced some form of mental illness in 2020 [1]. Mental disorders like depression and anxiety can significantly impact a person’s ability to engage in healthy behaviors. Conversely, physical health problems can hinder access to treatment for mental disorders [1].
Frequently Asked Questions About Depression in Utah
What resources are available for women struggling with depression in Utah?
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services offers resources through its HealthyMinds initiative. Additionally, local mental health providers and support groups can offer assistance.
How can community leaders support women’s mental health in Utah?
Community leaders can create connected neighborhoods,provide public spaces and nature access,offer leisure and recreational opportunities,and build pet-friendly spaces.
Disclaimer: This article provides facts about mental health trends and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
What steps do you think are most important for improving women’s mental health in Utah? Share yoru thoughts in the comments below and help us spread awareness by sharing this article!
