Let’s Empower Women to Talk About Mental Health
More people are talking openly about their own experiences with mental health and it’s about time!
Mental health means different things to different women. This can make it complicated for women to discuss the topic openly. When people refer to mental health, they’re thinking about it from the perspective of impairment or illness. However, mental health can describe how a woman functions daily, including her level of personal awareness, insight, and cognitive and emotional flexibility. At the same time, emotional self-care describes how a woman uses self-care to cope with her emotional needs and promote her well-being. In reality, mental health and wellness are normal parts of life. When we normalize the way women talk about mental health, we create honest and supportive dialogues.
Contributing factors to mental health
Many factors contribute to a woman’s mental health, like their past and present life experiences. Women may also be navigating a career, family dynamics, and even dreams for the future. These normal life experiences can impact mental health and emotional wellness. This is different than experiencing psychological or emotional distress that can be related to mental illness. However, there are some common reasons that women are not getting support and/or treatment that would allow them to feel better in both situations. Now more than ever, some things can help women break through these barriers.
Recognizing the impact of mental health- women are more likely to report experiencing mental health symptoms than men. But when it comes to black women and mental health treatment, they are less likely to seek support than white women. But there are increasingly more groups and services designed to address the unique perspective of different groups.
Ending the stigma – By having open dialogues and sharing their own experiences, women are helping each other to feel less isolated.
Cost doesn’t have to get in the way – There are many resources available that can make mental health care accessible. For women who are insured, some of the costs may be covered. Many therapists also offer a sliding fee scale, which can reduce the cost of paying directly. Group therapy may also be a free or lower-cost option.
Increased access to services – It can be as easy as searching online for mental health providers near you. However, an increasing number of providers offer virtual or Telehealth counseling services, so people don’t have to travel to an office.
A better understanding of therapy – Beginning to work with a therapist may seem scary, but the power is in the client’s hands. Many therapists offer a consultation to see if they are the right person to meet your needs and explain what they do.
When should you reach out for support?
Mental health must be a priority for women. One way to do this is to make time to check in with themselves emotionally and physically every day. They shouldn’t underestimate or ignore how they feel because our minds and bodies usually tell us what we need. Ignoring those signs or being a martyr can have long-term negative effects. It may be a sign to get more rest or maybe spend time doing something enjoyable to manage stress. Maybe it’s time to work with a coach on some personal goals, like starting your own business because it’s been a long-term dream.
However, when women are experiencing prolonged symptoms like low mood, lack of interest in things, or increased emotional distress, these may be signs of something more significant. If these feelings interfere with how they’re functioning or with their relationships, for example, it may be time to speak to a mental health professional like a therapist.
Working with someone to address these issues can have a really positive impact
You’ll be able to understand what may be contributing to the issue so that you can address it.
Taking care of yourself will help you be a better version of yourself.
You are less likely to feel isolated.
Your relationship with others will get better.
You’ll learn how to effectively deal with your symptoms in the future.
Every day there are more and more open discussions about mental health, which is great to see. Social media and platforms like blogs and vlogs have allowed women to share their experiences. Besides, mental health has become a more inclusive and diverse profession that is constantly growing. I hope this opens even more doors for women, particularly women of color, to feel connected and empowered. Wherever women are on the spectrum of mental health, other women can relate and just as many ways to seek and get the needed support. Making connections is key to emotional self care, personal and professional growth.
