Mental Health: Depression and Anxiety in Women
- Anayah Chowdhury
- Nov 26, 2023
- 6 min read
By: Anayah Chowdhury and Natalia Rodriguez
Women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression. Around the world, it is a recurring issue that young women's feelings and symptoms are frequently dismissed and ignored, often disregarded as hormonal or attention-seeking.
According to a recent survey, one in five young women who sought help for their mental health reported being told they were being "dramatic." The YouGov survey, commissioned by the suicide prevention charity Campaign Against Living Miserably (Calm), gathered insights from over 2,000 women regarding their experiences seeking help for mental health crises like panic attacks or manic depression. The findings revealed that many women felt their concerns were not taken seriously.
Research highlights that the stereotype of women being more emotional than men overlooks significant factors. Women and girls face unique societal pressures, biases, and stressors that men do not. Stress affects women’s brains differently due to hormonal fluctuations, and they often ruminate more on relationships and performance, leading to self-criticism. Chronic stress can elevate hormone levels, making women more susceptible to various health issues, including mental health disorders. This is particularly alarming, as over 10% of new mothers experience perinatal depression, and suicide is the leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the first year postpartum, with the highest rates among women aged 45 to 54.
Addressing women’s mental health requires structural changes to ensure that even small acts of validation and understanding are prioritized in society. Currently, societal attitudes often dismiss women’s mental health issues, labeling them as oversensitive or attributing them to hormonal cycles. This gender bias leads to the perception that behaviors aimed at seeking help are merely attention-seeking. Such labels are damaging and undermine the experiences of young women today.
Anayah Chowdhury, a high school student in Florida states: "I find it deeply troubling that mental health issues for women are often dismissed or considered taboo in many Asian societies, particularly in the environment where my parents were raised. In these cultures, mental health is frequently overlooked, with parents sometimes disregarding their children's struggles and even reprimanding them for expressing emotions or seeking help. This lack of understanding can create an environment where women feel ashamed or reluctant to talk about their mental health challenges. It’s crucial to break this cycle of stigma and promote open conversations about mental health, ensuring that women receive the support and validation they need. Everyone deserves to have their feelings acknowledged and understood, and it’s time for society to recognize the significance of mental health for women.”
Natalia Rodriguez, a high school student in Florida, provides her opinion, “ I am concerned about girls like my mother who grew up in South America. In many South American cultures, mental health issues are often stigmatized, particularly for women, leading to significant challenges in seeking help and support. Traditional beliefs may prioritize family honor and resilience over individual well-being, causing emotional struggles to be dismissed or minimized. Women may face societal pressures to conform to roles that discourage vulnerability, making it difficult for them to express their feelings or seek help without fear of judgment. This stigma can perpetuate cycles of silence and shame, leaving many women to navigate their mental health challenges alone. It's essential to foster a cultural shift that encourages open discussions about mental health, validating women's experiences and emotions. By promoting awareness and understanding, communities can create supportive environments where women feel empowered to seek help and share their struggles without fear. Everyone deserves recognition and support for their mental health, and society must acknowledge and address these issues for the well-being of women across South America.”
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What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, involving feelings of worry or fear. It can cause physical symptoms like a racing heart and mental issues like difficulty concentrating. While common, excessive anxiety can interfere with daily life and may be classified as an anxiety disorder.
When does anxiety become a disorder?
Anxiety becomes a condition, often classified as an anxiety disorder, when symptoms persist for six months or longer and are disproportionate to the actual situation. It can significantly interfere with daily activities, relationships, or work, leading to distress and impairment. Physical symptoms, such as panic attacks or chronic tension, may also be present. If anxiety constantly disrupts one’s life in these ways, it may be important to seek professional help.
What can I do about anxiety?
Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a first-line treatment that focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety.
Pharmacotherapy: Consultation with a healthcare provider may lead to the prescription of medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), or benzodiazepines for short-term management.
Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) have shown efficacy in reducing anxiety symptoms.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise has been demonstrated to enhance mood and reduce anxiety through the release of endorphins and other neurochemical changes.
Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and whole foods, ensuring adequate sleep hygiene, and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake can contribute to better anxiety management.
Breathing Exercises: Controlled breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing, can provide immediate physiological relief during acute anxiety episodes.
Support Networks: Engaging in support groups or group therapy can foster social support and provide shared coping strategies.
Why do I feel like this?
Feeling anxious can happen for many reasons, and it’s important to know you’re not alone in this. Sometimes, it’s influenced by genetics, meaning anxiety can run in families. Changes in brain chemistry might also play a role. Life events, especially stressful or traumatic ones, can trigger those anxious feelings.
Everyday pressures, like work challenges, relationship issues, or financial worries, can add to the mix. Even certain health conditions or substances like caffeine can heighten anxiety. Understanding these factors can help you find ways to cope and feel more grounded. Remember, it’s okay to seek support when you need it!
Symptoms of Anxiety:
Everyone is different and these symptoms may appear differently for different people. However, below are common symptoms of anxiety:
Excessive Worry: Constantly feeling worried about various aspects of life.
Restlessness: A sense of being on edge or unable to relax.
Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or drained, even without physical exertion.
Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing or finding it hard to think clearly.
Irritability: Increased sensitivity or frustration over small issues.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.
Muscle Tension: Tightness or aches in muscles, often in the neck, shoulders, or back.
Physical Symptoms: Such as a racing heart, sweating, trembling, or gastrointestinal issues.
Avoidance Behavior: Steering clear of situations that trigger anxiety.
Panic Attacks: Episodes of intense fear that may include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or feelings of impending doom.
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What is depression?
Depression is a common mental health disorder marked by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. Symptoms can include emotional distress, changes in appetite or sleep, fatigue, and difficulties with concentration or feelings of worthlessness. It can arise from various factors, including genetics and environment, and may range from mild to severe. Treatment often involves psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes tailored to the individual.
What can I do about my depression?
Seek Professional Help: Consult a mental health professional for therapy options like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other therapeutic approaches.
Medication: Discuss with a healthcare provider about antidepressants that may be appropriate for your situation.
Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity, as exercise can help improve mood and reduce symptoms.
Establish a Routine: Creating a daily schedule can provide structure and a sense of normalcy.
Connect with Others: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups to share your feelings and experiences.
Practice Self-Care: Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or meditation.
Limit Alcohol and Drugs: Avoid substances that can worsen depression symptoms.
Set Small Goals: Break tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Symptoms of Depression
Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness
Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters
Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports
Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort
Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain
Anxiety, agitation or restlessness
Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame
Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things
Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide
Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or thoughts of self-harm, it's important to reach out for help. There are resources available that can provide support and guidance. One option is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), which offers confidential support 24/7. Remember, you’re not alone, and help is just a call away.
We are not qualified to provide medical assistance. We are simply doing this to help spread awareness. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or any mental disorder please reach out to a suicide hotline or qualified professional. You are not alone.
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