Women’s Issues
Women’s Issues refer to specific concerns that could have an impact on a woman’s mental health. Although some issues may have a connection to gender stereotyping, and assumptions, there may also be concerns faced by women that have no connection to gender specifically. Biological, psychosocial, and environmental experiences women face can pose challenges related to gender and can influence women’s mental health and self-esteem.
Understanding the Challenges
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that women are more likely to experience mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression, as well as mental distress in general at higher rates than men.
Oxford University psychologist Daniel Freeman, analyzed 12 large-scale studies looking at the general population in different areas of the world. He found a 20% – 40% greater likelihood of women developing a mental illness than men. According to Freeman, “Women tend to view themselves more negatively than men and that is a vulnerability factor for many mental health problems.” (Ball, J. (2013, May 22). Women 40% more likely than men to develop mental illness, study finds. The Guardian. Retrieved from http://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/may/22/women-men-mental-illness-study)
Common Concerns:
- Depression
- Body image
- Anxiety
- Postpartum depression
- Posttraumatic stress
- Eating disorders
- Borderline personality
- Mood-related challenges
- Self-harming behaviors
- Life management after divorce
- Grief
- Empty nest
- Self-Reliance
Typical Treatment Approaches
Typical treatment approaches I use in therapy will include various aspects of: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Training, and Trauma Informed Care.
These approaches to therapy have similarities and differences which promote strengths based and intuitive coping tools to assist you with developing better emotion regulation, assertive communication, problem solving, relaxation, the ability to challenge and change unhelpful thinking patterns, and tolerate life’s uncertainties.
Online Resource for Women’s Mental Health
https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-resources
Recommended reading:
Brene Brown – I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn’t) & The Gifts of Imperfection
Ted Talk by Brene Brown – Listening to Shame
Contact me if you have further questions or would like to make an appointment. I look forward to hearing from you.
