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Breaking the Silence: The Overlooked Link Between PCOS and Mental Health

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is frequently discussed in terms of hormones, fertility, and physical symptoms like irregular periods, acne, or weight fluctuations. Yet, one of the most profound and often overlooked impacts of PCOS is on mental health. As many as 40–60% of people with PCOS experience mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and disordered eating (Dokras et al., 2011). Despite this, emotional well-being is rarely prioritized in treatment plans, leaving many to navigate these struggles in silence.
The hormonal imbalances at the heart of PCOS—particularly involving insulin, testosterone, and cortisol—don’t just affect the body. They also influence the brain’s chemistry and mood regulation, making individuals more vulnerable to conditions like depression and anxiety. Research shows that people with PCOS are up to twice as likely to experience these symptoms compared to those without the condition. This risk is compounded by factors such as insulin resistance, infertility-related distress, body image concerns, chronic fatigue, and a lack of validation from healthcare providers.
The emotional toll of PCOS is further amplified by social stigma. Many individuals report feeling dismissed or misunderstood—told to simply lose weight or “just relax”—which invalidates their lived experience and can deepen feelings of shame, frustration, and isolation. For those navigating a condition that impacts their physical appearance, fertility, and sense of control over their own bodies, the psychological burden can be immense.
Mental health care should not be an afterthought when it comes to PCOS—it needs to be a central part of support and treatment. Collaborative care models that include mental health professionals, endocrinologists, dietitians, and primary care providers are essential. Therapeutic approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based interventions, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and body-inclusive practices can offer meaningful support. Trauma-informed care that validates the chronic and often invisible nature of PCOS can make a significant difference in helping individuals feel seen, heard, and supported.
We can all play a role in shifting how PCOS is treated. This means screening for mental health symptoms during PCOS care, normalizing emotional responses to chronic illness, referring clients to appropriate mental health support, and advocating for inclusive, whole-person care. It also means listening with empathy and acknowledging that living with PCOS is not just a physical challenge—it’s an emotional one too.
PCOS is more than a reproductive or metabolic condition—it’s a whole-person health issue. By bringing mental health into the conversation, we empower people to manage their symptoms while also reclaiming their self-worth and well-being. Let’s challenge the silence, reduce the stigma, and provide care that sees the whole person—mind and body.

Source: Dokras, A., et al. (2011). Increased risk for abnormal depression scores in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 117(1), 145–152. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181fe424b