Within mental health services there are fewer women than men with serious mental health problems and there is evidence that their needs are relatively neglected resulting in specific deleterious effects. In research, as in services, the abilities of women with serious mental health problems appear to be under-estimated, and there is almost a total absence of research into the views and experiences of such women. This study aimed to explore the lives of women with serious ongoing mental health problems and their experience of services, to develop understanding of the context and impact of mental distress. In a series of 5 focus group interviews, the women, who were using a range of services for people with long-term mental health problems, described lives which, even before the onset of mental health problems, were marked by material, social and personal disadvantage. Their mental health problems led to numerous losses: loss of homes, jobs, relationships, children and loss of 'normality', yet the women retained hopes and aspirations for the future. The women clearly identified aspects of the service that they valued, in particular the support and company of women workers and other women service users. The implications of these findings are discussed in relation to planning and providing mental health services for women.