Welcome!

Thank you for taking the time to read "A Woman's Guide to Emotional Wellness." This booklet is part of a series of materials called "Bright Futures for Women's Health and Wellness." This series also includes guides for young women, community organizations, and health care providers. These materials were developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Office of Women's Health, with the guidance of a 10-member panel of predominantly female mental health experts (medical doctors, psychiatrists, and researchers) from across the country. The aim of the Bright Futures project is to help women achieve better physical, mental, social, and spiritual health by encouraging healthy practices.

Like physical health, mental health exists on a spectrum. At one end are feelings of flourishing and thriving, and at the other are depressed and anxious feelings. For a variety of reasons, the field of mental health has historically focused on the negative end of this spectrum. This booklet is different. It is not about treating or avoiding depression: it is about helping women like you to feel your best.

The tips and information in this booklet are drawn from the latest research into what helps women excel in their day-to-day lives. This research suggests that coping skills (such as flexibility, feeling strong, and optimism), personal traits (high self-esteem), and resources (spiritual practices and support from family and friends) can boost women's mental wellness. As women develop these elements in their own lives, they increase well-being, satisfaction, and their overall quality of life. While this guide focuses on women's emotional wellness, it also touches on some of the more common types of depression and anxiety that many women can face from time to time. It is not intended, however, to help you diagnose or treat these or other illnesses. If you believe you are suffering from depression, anxiety, or a more serious mental illness, please see a health care professional who can help you.

This guide is designed to share this information with you and to encourage you to adopt some of the tips to improve your emotional wellness. We hope you find it helpful. When you are finished with it, please share it with the other women in your life!

Sincerely,
Elizabeth M. Duke
Administrator
Health Resources and Services Administration
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services