Have you lost much of the joy you once felt? Are you struggling in abusive or toxic relationship? Have years of living with a low self-worth resulted in a less-than-desirable life?
Throughout the ages, women have been called “the fairer sex.” And yet, were you to ask women about their life experiences, many would admit their life’s events haven’t always seemed so fair.
Women may experience certain environmental, psychological and biological challenges related to gender that have a significant impact on their mental health and well-being. If not addressed properly, these challenges can turn into burdens that often lead to anxiety, depression and a lost sense of self.
Are Women More at Risk of Developing Mental Health Issues?
Daniel Freeman, Oxford University clinical psychologist analyzed 12 large-scale studies and concluded that women may be between 20% and 40% more likely to develop 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.”
Some common mental health issues experienced by women include:
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Anxiety
- Postpartum depression
- Postpartum psychosis
- Posttraumatic stress
- Eating disorders
- Borderline personalities
- Low self-worth
- Self-harming behaviors
- GenX women may especially relate to:
- Imposter syndrome
- Rage
- Worries about not having “done enough” or lived up to their parents’/society’s expectations despite accomplishments in education, career and family lives
- How it feels to be part of the “lost generation”
Why Seek Therapy for Women’s Issues?
Women’s issues can take a serious toll on a woman’s emotional, physical, and mental health. The effects can be mild to extreme, and in many cases, women are not able to cope with their issues on their own.
By seeking therapy, a woman can get the help she needs in overcoming an issue she has been struggling with.
There are several therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), that can offer coping tools and new perspectives. Seeking therapy can be an empowering first step on the road back to YOU. And while each step you take make, at times, feel challenging, uncertain and scary, you will have someone right there with you listening and encouraging you to cross that finish line.
If you or someone you know would like to explore treatment options, please get in touch with me. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey.