International Women’s Day was celebrated yesterday 8th March 2022 under the theme “Break the Bias” and in honor of this day, the opportunity will be used to address today’s topic of Woman and Mental Health. Mental health can affect women and men differently, and there are some mental health disorders that are more common in women such as depression and anxiety. There are also some mental health disorders that are unique to women, as some women may experience symptoms of mental disorders when they experience hormonal changes.These hormonal changes can result in perinatal depression, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and perimenopause-related disorders.
Social, physical and economic factors can also put women at greater risk for developing mental health issues. As such, when we give thought to socioeconomic factors, dependency, and hormonal changes, women may be greatly susceptibility in some circumstances. What are some factors that may affecta woman’s mental health?
• Women are known to be caregivers which can lead to stress, anxiety and isolation as they spend a large quantity of their time taking care of others and neglecting themselves.
• Living in an environment where they are dependent on others can affect them as they worry about personal safety or become depressed because they are unsure of how they will be able to provide for themselves and family in some instances.
• They are more susceptible to experiencing physical and sexual abuse, which can have long term impacts on their mental health, for example, posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression.
• With the pressure that is put on appearance and fitting into a certain mold, women can also be at risk for developing eating disorders. This can lead to unhealthy binging with purging and non-purging behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, using diuretics, laxatives or diet pills, fasting/ skipping meals or obsessively exercising.
Women however, find it easier to talk about their feeling and have stronger social networks; two factors which contribute to better mental health. Thus, as a woman, what are some self-care tips that you can engage in to maintain good mental health?
• Speak to your doctor about changes you experience with your body, as being informed on your physical health can he helpful towards improving your mental health.
• Take a breath, practice deep breathing and grounding exercises.
• Work on your trauma – there are a lot of feelings that are not being addressed becausesome have chosen to stifle their feelings.Work on your trauma so it does not consume you and prevent you from progressing.
• Affirm your worth – on days when you are feeling positive, take note of these days so that you can remind yourself of your worth on days when you are not feeling your best.
• Sort out your social media – regularly assess the content that you consume on social media. Are there accounts that trigger unpleasant emotions or feeling for you? If it does not bring you joy or peace, unfollow!
• Educate, empower and share with the women around you.
• When you feel overwhelmed talk to a professional.
As a society let us build an environment where women support women, men support women and vice versa. Each one, empower one!
Written by:
Ms. Ellica Matthews