Women’s Fund of Central Indiana has released the Mental Health & Public Policy Brief, a focused look at mental health challenges facing women in Central Indiana and seven recommendations to improve outcomes. The brief builds on findings from the 2024 State of Women in Central Indiana Report and incorporates insights from community conversations, panel discussions, and Hoosiers’ lived experience.
The full brief is available at www.womensfund.org/report or by clicking here.
“Women across Central Indiana told us that mental health is a top priority, not only for themselves, but also for the girls they care for and support,” said Tamara Winfrey-Harris, president of Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. “This brief provides both data and solutions, showing that investing in women’s mental health improves not only individual outcomes, but also outcomes for communities, economies, and the state as a whole.”
According to the brief, women’s mental health in Central Indiana is at a crisis point, with women reporting significantly higher rates of depression, frequent distress, and suicide attempts than men. Women are also disproportionately impacted by substance use disorders, caregiving stress, and systemic barriers to accessing mental healthcare.
Local Data:
- Workforce shortage: Indiana ranks 44th in mental health workforce availability, leaving women with few accessible options for care.
- Barriers to care: High costs, long wait times, and lack of provider diversity leave many women untreated or relying on emergency interventions.
- Higher rates of distress and depression: Nearly 30% of women in Central Indiana report experiencing depression, with the highest rates among women ages 18–34.
Seven Recommendations for Change:
The Mental Health & Public Policy Brief outlines concrete recommendations to address these challenges, including:
- Increase the supply and accessibility of mental health services.
- Reduce stigma around seeking help.
- Value caregiving and caregivers.
- Address root causes like lack of access to childcare, housing, and transportation.
- Expand access to preventive care instead of crisis response.
- Engage policymakers through advocacy, voting, and visits to communities.
- Build empathy and political will through community-driven stories.
How to Take Action:
Women’s Fund encourages decision-makers, policymakers, nonprofits, and donors to use the brief as a roadmap for investment and advocacy. By expanding access, addressing systemic barriers, and valuing the full spectrum of women’s lived experiences, Central Indiana can begin to reverse the crisis and foster healthier futures for all.
The Mental Health & Public Policy Brief was developed in partnership with the Polis Center at Indiana University Indianapolis, with support from community partners and webinar participants who shared their expertise and lived experiences.
Media Contact:
Kelsey Singh
KelseyS@cicf.org
About Women’s Fund of Central Indiana
Women’s Fund is a 501(c)3 special interest fund of Central Indiana Community Foundation. It is dedicated to creating equitable opportunities for all women and girls to reach their full potential. Through advocacy, education, and community-driven initiatives, Women’s Fund strives to address systemic challenges and foster meaningful change.