Mental Health and Well-Being of Women and Girls: Challenges, Resilience and Pathways to Support

The mental health of women and girls has emerged as a significant global concern, shaped by an intricate interplay of biological, sociocultural, economic, and structural determinants. Despite substantial progress in public health, gender-responsive mental health frameworks remain unevenly implemented, particularly in regions where patriarchal norms, socioeconomic disenfranchisement, and limited access to healthcare converge to restrict psychological well-being. This article examines the multifaceted challenges affecting the mental health of women and girls, situating them within a broader context of structural inequities and persistent gender hierarchies. It also explores the remarkable resilience demonstrated by women and girls across diverse social environments, highlighting protective factors such as community solidarity, adaptive coping strategies, educational empowerment, and access to safe social networks. Furthermore, the article identifies effective pathways to strengthening mental health support systems through policy reforms, school-based interventions, healthcare integration, and community-led models of psychosocial care. By analyzing current evidence and emerging trends, this research underscores the urgent need for holistic, intersectional, and gender-responsive mental health strategies that recognize the unique vulnerabilities and strengths of women and girls. Ultimately, it advocates for an inclusive ecosystem that promotes dignity, emotional safety, and psychological flourishing for all women and girls across the life course.