There are 12.6 million women in Australia, and they all go through life changes and experiences that are exclusive to women and have an impact on their mental health and wellness.
When addressing the mental health and wellbeing of women and girls, we must take into account the effects of those aspects that are particular to women, such as reproductive health, pregnancy, motherhood, and menopause,
When discussing the necessity of mental health care for females, it’s necessary to take into account how women’s mental health concerns differ from men’s. According to recent research, gender differences in men’s and women’s brains contribute significantly to why women are more likely to have psychological problems like depression.
A closer look at the difference
Women’s Mental Health can be affected by:
- Depression
In comparison to men, women are twice as likely to experience depression in their lifetime. The onset of depression in women is influenced by gender, heredity, social standing, and economic status.
- Anxiety
Women are twice as likely as men to experience anxiety. Testosterone, which is typically present in men in higher concentrations than in women, has been proven to have antidepressant and antianxiety effects. Women are also more likely than males to seek treatment for anxiety, despite this fact. This might contribute to the higher frequency of diagnoses in women.
- Eating Disorders
Eating disorders impact women much more than they do men. Eating disorders are characterised by compulsive thoughts and behaviours towards food, weight, and beauty.
- Trauma
Following incidents of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and other traumatic situations, women may develop PTSD. Additionally, women are more likely than men to experience severe PTSD symptoms.
6 Ways to prioritise your health
It has never been more important to put your physical and mental health first.
#1 – Schedule your appointment
Schedule any PAP smears, mammograms, bone density scans, cholesterol and blood pressure screenings, physical examinations, and other preventive health services that you might have missed during the pandemic. Not sure what you might need? Speak with your doctor.
#2 – Stay activeOne of the most important things you can do to improve your health at any age is to engage in physical activity. The good news? Household chores like cleaning and gardening count as movement and exercise.
# 3 – Eat WellWhilst mental illness derives from psychological or emotional components, nutrition can also help us improve our mental health.
By optimising our nutrition and addressing digestive issues, we can assist in supporting our mood. This is not to mean that emotional or psychological issues should be ignored; but, diet and lifestyle choices may play a significant role. Learn more about the relationship between food and mental health here.# 4 – Practice self-care
Make a list of self-care activities you can perform each day or weekly. Keep in touch with your loved ones and friends. Spend some time relaxing and engaging in your favourite activities. For ideas on how to practice self-care, click here.
# 5 – Manage Stress
Create a toolbox of healthy stress-reduction techniques. Stress can be reduced by doing routine, everyday acts like setting aside time for reading, exercise, and relaxation. Learn 5 practical tips to reduce stress right now here.
# 6 – Sleep well
Lack of sleep can increase the risk of injuries, productivity loss, depression, heart disease, and other physical and mental health issues, including mortality. To enhance your sleep habits, establish a schedule for going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day – even on weekends. Aim to sleep for at least 7 hours each night. Learn more about sleep hygiene here.
If you are struggling with your mental health, we encourage you to reach out to us. At Positive Mind Works we have a team of psychologist who are experienced in dealing with women’s mental health. To learn more or to book an appointment, give our reception team a call on 477 (AU) / 0800 327 477 (NZ) or click here to book online.
Associated information:
How does Self-Care Affect Your Mental Health?
5 Practical Tips to Reduce Stress Right Now
Nutrition and Mood
Nutrition and Mood
