In pursuing mental health awareness, it is essential to recognize that women often face unique stressors and societal pressures. These pressures can encompass roles as caregivers, breadwinners, and multitaskers, leading to increased vulnerability to mental health challenges.
What are mental health problems?
Mental health is how we think and feel and our ability to deal with ups and downs. Our mental health does not always stay the same. It can fluctuate as circumstances change and you move through different life stages.
We all have times when we feel down, stressed, or frightened. Those feelings often pass, but sometimes they develop into mental health problems like anxiety or depression, impacting our daily lives. For some people, mental health problems become complex and require support and treatment for life.
Factors like poverty, genetics, childhood trauma, discrimination, or ongoing physical illness make it more likely that we will develop mental health problems, but mental health problems can happen to anybody.
Approximately 30% of women worldwide grapple with mental health issues during their lives.
Symptoms of mental disorders in women
● Persistent sadness or feelings of hopelessness
● Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, weight, appetite or sleep pattern.
● Excessive fear or worry
● Seeing or hearing things that are not there
● Thoughts or behaviours that interfere with work, family, or social life
● Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts
Why don't people talk about mental health?
Awareness of mental health is increasing, but we still face a world where people with mental health problems face discrimination and challenges getting the help they need. Many people who experience distress try to keep their feelings hidden because they fear other people's responses.
Fear of discrimination and feelings of shame are among the top reasons people give for not telling people about their mental health problems. When we create workplace cultures where people can be themselves, it is easier to speak about mental health concerns without fear and more accessible for them to reach out for help when needed.
Ways to Improve your mental health
When we enjoy good mental health, we have a sense of purpose and direction, the energy to do what we want, and the ability to deal with the challenges that happen in our lives.
● Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness), and don’t worry about things beyond your control
● Stay active. Exercising helps to keep your mind and body strong.
● Learn new skills to boost self-esteem
● Connect with others by volunteering in schools, hospitals, or community groups.
● Only follow social media accounts that make you feel happy and positive.
● Take breaks from media and technology use. Limit the time you spend online and be present with yourself.
● Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Supporting Mental Health: Promoting mental health awareness among women involves creating safe spaces for open conversations, reducing stigma, and offering tailored resources. It is crucial to emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Supportive networks, therapy, and self-care practices can empower women to manage their mental health effectively.
Conclusion
At Global Reach Girls (GRG), we understand that women globally face mental health challenges and that is why we have created a community of great women supporting each other through prayers, sharing challenges anonymously, and participating in group chats and discussions on various topics.
Mental health education is critical for today's generation to establish a healthier and more resilient society. We can enable young women to approach life's difficulties with confidence and well-being by acknowledging the problems, breaking the stigma, fostering resilience, and establishing supportive surroundings.
As we champion mental health awareness, we all can take meaningful steps towards a more inclusive and supportive society. Together, we can empower women to prioritize their mental health, fostering a world where everyone has the tools and resources to thrive.
But for today, start with yourself because change begins with you. TODAY IS WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY. TAKE A BREATHER, HAVE A HOT DRINK, RELAX, REST, TAKE A BREAK!
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