FUNDANEED.esFoundation FUNDANEED Forum on “Women’s Mental Health: A Pending Challenge in Today’s Society”
The FUNDANEED foundation has celebrated International Women’s Day with a forum on the CARE OF WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH at the Santander Work Café. It has had a significant presence of representatives from various associations and has been graced by the presence of the Public Health and Consumer Councilor, Vega Villar, at this event.
The latest statistics indicate that 45.9% of women are responsible for the majority of household chores compared to 14.9% of men, according to the Essential Characteristics of Population and Housing Survey by INE published on 10/10/2023, which reaffirms a reality largely assumed by women, underpinning an increasingly stressful social situation.
There has been discussion about prioritizing prevention over chronicity, the ongoing stigmatization of serious illnesses, the importance of having correct information, and the availability of community or healthcare points where help can be sought when needed.
In the pursuit of a fulfilling and balanced life in our 21st century, mental health plays a fundamental role, and women are not exempt from this challenge. However, experiences, challenges, and solutions in the field of mental health can vary significantly between genders. In this article, we explore some of the key aspects of women’s mental health, from factors contributing to disparities in access to care to self-care strategies and community support initiatives.
Challenges and Disparities in Access to Care:
Women face a series of unique challenges regarding their mental health. Sociocultural pressures such as unrealistic beauty standards, gender expectations, and especially gender-based violence, can significantly impact emotional well-being. Additionally, women are more likely than men to experience anxiety and depression disorders, underscoring the importance of equitable access to healthcare and mental health resources.
However, disparities in access to care persist. Financial barriers, lack of health insurance, stigma, and a shortage of specialized services are just some of the obstacles many women face when seeking help for their mental health issues. These disparities may be even more pronounced for women from marginalized communities or with limited resources.
Self-Care Strategies and Community Support:
Despite these challenges, many women are adopting self-care strategies to promote their mental health and well-being. Regular exercise, meditation, social connection, and engaging in activities that bring joy and satisfaction are just some of the ways women are prioritizing their emotional health.
Additionally, community support initiatives are emerging to address the specific mental health needs of women. Support groups, helplines, and online resources are providing safe spaces where women can share their experiences, find mutual support, and access useful information and resources.
The Importance of Comprehensive Care:
To effectively address the mental health challenges women face, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive approach that recognizes and addresses the multiple dimensions of their well-being. This includes not only access to quality mental health services but also creating social and cultural environments that promote gender equality, positive self-esteem, and personal autonomy.
Furthermore, it is crucial to involve women in decision-making regarding their own mental health, recognizing and respecting their unique experiences and perspectives. By doing so, we can move towards a future where all women have the opportunity to reach their full emotional potential and lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
