Whilst it is relatively well established from epidemiological research that the prevalence of anxiety disorders is higher in females compared with males, the reasons behind this disparity are unclear.1,2
Studies using animal models have begun to unravel some of the sex differences in pathways key to anxiety, such as fear processing, arousal, and social avoidance.2 The plasticity unique to the female brain matching the natural cycling of ovarian hormones may explain some of the greater incidence of anxiety disorders amoung women, but future studies are needed to translate observations from animal models into humans.1
Related content
Suicidal ideation is far more common than attempts in people with anxiety or depression, especially with comorbid disorders and severe depression.