Understanding Anxiety in Women: Key Symptoms, Hormonal Factors, and Effective Solutions

Women with anxiety

When people think of anxiety, they often imagine someone who’s constantly worried, restless, or even having panic attacks. And while that’s true, there’s a bigger picture—especially for women. Anxiety can wear many faces, and some of them are surprisingly subtle.

First, it’s important to know that anxiety is more common in women than in men. Researchers believe that a combination of biology, hormones, social pressures, and even how we’re taught to handle emotions all play a role. But the differences don’t stop at how often it happens. The way anxiety shows up can be quite distinct for women.

One major difference is that women’s anxiety often includes more physical symptoms. Complaints such as headaches, muscle tension, stomach issues, and fatigue are common. Sometimes, these physical symptoms are so prominent that women don’t even realize anxiety is the cause. They might see multiple doctors searching for a physical explanation when the root problem is emotional.

Another feature is that women are more likely to experience something called “internalizing” symptoms. That means the anxiety turns inward. Instead of acting out or becoming aggressive, women might feel excessive guilt, worry, self-criticism, or shame. These feelings can become a constant, exhausting background hum, making even daily tasks feel overwhelming.

Anxiety in women is also tightly intertwined with hormonal changes. Many women notice spikes in anxiety around their menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, postpartum, or in perimenopause. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can influence brain chemicals that regulate mood and anxiety. So, for some women, certain times of the month—or phases of life—can feel like emotional rollercoasters.

Interestingly, women with anxiety are also more prone to certain related conditions. Depression often goes hand in hand with anxiety, and women are statistically more likely than men to experience both at the same time. There’s also a higher tendency toward disorders like PTSD, especially among women who have experienced trauma, which sadly is not uncommon.

Social expectations also play a significant role. Women are often taught to be accommodating, polite, and “put together.” Because of this, they might feel compelled to hide their anxiety or downplay it, even when they’re struggling inside. This can lead to what some psychologists call “smiling depression” or “high-functioning anxiety,” where someone seems fine on the outside but feels like they’re falling apart underneath.

Finally, anxiety in women often comes with rumination—that habit of going over the same worries in a mental loop. Instead of problem-solving, the mind stays stuck, replaying worst-case scenarios. This is draining and can keep anxiety alive far longer than it needs to be.

Understanding how anxiety can appear differently in women is crucial. It helps us be kinder to ourselves and more supportive of the women around us who might be fighting silent battles. Anxiety isn’t just “nerves” or stress; it’s a real condition that deserves care, whether it’s therapy, medication, self-care, or support from loved ones.

If you’ve noticed some of these patterns in yourself or someone you care about, know that help is available. And you’re not alone. At Amani Healing Center, we are the therapists in Delaware who specialize in women's mental health. We can help you find calm. Call us today and connect with a therapist who understands you.

302-292-9942