Suppressing Emotions: 80% of Women Experience Illness | Libelle

A growing body of research suggests a connection between emotional suppression, particularly anger and increased rates of both autoimmune diseases and mental health conditions in women. While the precise mechanisms are still being investigated, experts are exploring how societal expectations and conditioned responses to emotions may be impacting women’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Autoimmune Disease Disproportionately Affects Women

Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, are not evenly distributed across genders. Data consistently shows that women are significantly more likely to develop these conditions. Currently, women account for nearly 80% of autoimmune disease cases, a statistic observed as early as 2020 and continuing through May 15, 2025.

These diseases encompass a wide range of conditions, including thyroid diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus. The reasons for this disparity have long been a subject of study, traditionally focusing on biological factors. However, emerging research points to a potential role for behavioral and societal influences.

The Link Between Suppressed Anger and Health

The idea that suppressing emotions, specifically anger, could contribute to illness is gaining traction. A 2021 study indicated that women also experience higher rates of anxiety, PTSD, and anorexia. Recent findings suggest that women may be more inclined to suppress anger due to societal conditioning. Psychologist Dana Jack, in the late 1980s, identified a pattern of “self-silencing” among her female patients – a tendency to suppress needs, prioritize pleasing others, and avoid conflict. This behavior was linked to a heightened risk of depression.

More recent research builds on this foundation. A study from the University of Pittsburgh found that suppressed anger in women of color correlated with a 70% increased risk of atherosclerosis, raising their risk of heart disease. Research indicates that emotional suppression, in general, is linked to increased risks of depression and chronic illness.

Social Conditioning and Emotional Expression

The tendency for women to suppress anger is often attributed to societal expectations. Women are frequently conditioned to be agreeable and to prioritize the needs of others, internalizing a “socially determined role” of being polite and avoiding conflict. This can lead to the internalization of emotions rather than healthy expression. The perception of anger as a “masculine emotion” may also contribute to this suppression.

Experts like Dr. Gabor Mate have explained that this internalization worsens the problem. The act of suppressing genuine emotional responses can have physiological consequences, potentially contributing to the development or exacerbation of physical illness.

Beyond Autoimmune Disease: A Wider Impact

The consequences of self-silencing extend beyond autoimmune diseases and heart health. Psychologist Maytal Eyal notes that this tendency is linked to several other health complications, including HIV, cancer, and even premature death. This highlights the broad impact of emotional wellbeing on overall health.

While more research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between emotional suppression and physical health, the existing evidence underscores the importance of addressing emotional wellbeing as part of a holistic approach to healthcare. The connection between gender, emotions, and autoimmune diseases warrants further investigation, given the disproportionate occurrence rates across genders.

As of today, February 4, 2026, the understanding of these connections is still evolving, but the growing body of evidence suggests that acknowledging and addressing suppressed emotions may be a crucial step in promoting women’s health.