In Her Mind: Navigating the Terrain of Women’s Mental Health in America
BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|
In the diverse lives of Americans, the intricacies of women’s mental health remain a critical yet often understated conversation. The journey toward mental wellbeing is complex and influenced by an array of factors, from societal expectations and cultural norms to individual experiences and the evolving roles of women in contemporary America.
“More than 1 in 5 women in the United States experienced a mental health condition in the past year, such as depression or anxiety. Many mental health conditions, such as depression and bipolar disorder, affect more women than men or affect women in different ways from men. Most serious mental health conditions cannot be cured. But they can be treated, so you can get better and live well[1] ”.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health[2] , “when it comes to other mental disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, research has not found sex differences in the rates at which they are diagnosed. But certain symptoms may be more common in women than men, and the course of illness can be affected by a person’s sex. Researchers are only now beginning to tease apart the various biological and psychological factors that may impact mental health.”
Why women’s mental health? According to the Kernodle Clinic[3] :
- 1 in 5 American women has a mental health condition.
- Some mental health conditions affect more women than men as: Major depressive disorder; generalized anxiety disorder (GAD); post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); eating disorders.
- There are disorders that only affect females as: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD); postpartum depression and perimenopausal depression.
- Women are more likely to seek help for certain conditions.
In conclusion, our exploration into the realm of women’s mental health in the United Stated unveils a narrative rich in complexity, resilience, and the undeniable need for continued dialogue and support. As we navigate though the multifaceted challenges faced by women, it becomes evident that mental wellbeing is not only a personal journey but a collective responsibility.
[1]https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health
[2]https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/women-and-mental-health
[3]https://www.kernodle.com/obgyn_blog/facts-about-womens-mental-health/