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On mental health and wellness matters, who is affected more, men or women?
Well, statistically, it has been found that more women than men suffer from mental illness. However, this has been attributed to the fact that women are more outspoken about their problems while men are trammeled with societal expectations of exhibiting stoicism, which is generally embedded in hegemonic masculinity. This makes it difficult for them to show vulnerability, which is deemed weak. But empirically speaking, yes, women in Kenya have been found to suffer more from mental issues, especially mood disorders.
In my opinion, the causes of mental illnesses are not exclusively gender biased. For instance, genetics, substance use, traumas, and even hormonal imbalance have been associated with the etiology of mental illnesses in both genders. Of course, we can’t be oblivious to the fact that hormonal imbalances/ fluctuations do occur more in women, hence the reported higher rates in mood disorders. As previously mentioned, the other plausible explanation for the notably poorer mental health among women as compared to men is women’s presumed ease in vocalizing their mental health concerns.
As we work to support women’s mental health, how can friends, colleagues, and others help?
Friends, colleagues, and other people can help by initially destigmatizing mental illness. I believe the perception held by most people, despite considerable growth in knowledge and awareness about mental health/ wellness, makes it difficult for women to come forward when they need support. This is because mental illness is still regarded as strange/bizarre. For women who self-stigmatize, a supportive social environment can be the first step towards recovery and wellness.
What’s your take on seeking therapy even when there are no apparent mental health issues?
The question is, can we say that there is no mental health issue? Any issue that considerably affects how you think, feel, and behave (meaning there’s a slight deviation from the norm) should be considered as something affecting your mental health. Now, that doesn’t mean that it has to be associated with or stemming from a psychopathology/ disorder, but it could mean that you need therapy to navigate it. So, yes, it is important to seek therapy to understand issues that might be causing distress, discomfort, and not necessarily depression, for example. Sometimes, new things that are causing feelings like extreme joy can warrant booking a session with your therapist. New ventures like getting married, starting a business, or deciding to have a baby might need a session with your therapist. It depends on the individual and how they navigate issues.
Regular Mental wellness checks are always good for a woman’s overall mental well-being.
This article was written by Dr. Sylvia Raywe, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Integrative & Holistic Hospital – Karen.
