Women’s Month: Mental health in the spotlight
Research suggests there has been an increase in common mental disorders among women.
AS the world commemorates Women’s Month, experts are shining a light on women’s mental health.
There are various factors in today’s society, which could have a factor on the female psyche – this includes, but is not limited to gender discrimination, domestic violence, sexual abuse and pressures created by the multiple roles women need to fulfil.
ALSO READ: 5 things people with hidden depression do
This is according to Dr Eileen Thomas, a psychiatrist affiliated with Akeso clinics and Panorama Healthcare.
Research also suggests there has been an increase in common mental orders among women, she said.
While the rates of psychiatric disorders are almost identical for men and women, Thomas said some disorders such as depression and anxiety are more common among women.
ALSO READ: SA’s high teen suicide rate
“There are also certain types of depression that are unique to women. Some women may experience symptoms of mental disorders at times of hormone change, such as perinatal depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and perimenopause-related depression,” she said.
What’s more, women with severe mental illness also have elevated risks of being both victims and perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) – with an estimated rate of 10 to 30 per cent in South Africa.
Current data suggest that South African rates of postpartum depression are also much higher than global estimates.
- Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter to keep up-to-date with local news or follow us on WhatsApp on 060 532 5532.
