A Special Focus for Women's Health Month
As May brings both Women's Health Month and Mother's Day, it's the perfect time to focus on the unique mental health challenges that women experience. At Resolutions Therapy Practice, we recognize that women face distinct pressures and physiological factors that can impact their mental wellbeing, and we're committed to providing supportive, compassionate care tailored to these specific needs.
Women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety disorders. This disparity stems from a complex interplay of biological, hormonal, social, and cultural factors. Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum periods, and menopause can significantly affect mood and emotional regulation. Additionally, societal expectations, caregiving responsibilities, and work-life balance challenges create unique stressors for many women.
One often overlooked aspect of women's mental health is neurodivergence. Conditions like ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, Tourette's syndrome, and OCD have historically been underdiagnosed in women. While boys typically receive diagnoses early in life, many women struggle well into adulthood before receiving proper identification and support. This diagnostic delay occurs because the criteria for these conditions were initially based on studies primarily focused on males, often overlooking female-typical presentations.
Many neurodivergent women become adept at "masking" their symptoms, mimicking neurotypical behaviors to fit in socially. Women are more likely to have inattentive-type ADHD (less disruptive and noticeable than hyperactive type), demonstrate better social camouflaging in autism, and often present with internalized symptoms like anxiety and depression that overshadow underlying neurodivergent traits. The impact of late diagnosis can be profound, leading to years of unexplained difficulties, low self-esteem, challenges in education and career progression, relationship difficulties, and increased vulnerability to mental health issues.
Nutrition also plays a vital role in women's mental health through the gut-brain axis, a complex communication network linking emotional and cognitive brain centers with intestinal functions. This bidirectional communication means that gut health significantly impacts mental wellbeing. Key nutrients particularly beneficial for women's mental health include omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds), B vitamins (in leafy greens, legumes, and eggs), vitamin D, antioxidants (from berries and dark leafy greens), magnesium (in nuts, seeds, and whole grains), and probiotics (from fermented foods like yogurt and kefir).
Self-care is another essential component of women's mental health that works synergistically with therapy. While therapy provides a structured environment for addressing deep-seated issues, incorporating self-care practices into daily routines significantly enhances the therapeutic process. Effective self-care builds emotional resilience, increases self-awareness, improves physical health, reduces stress, fosters empowerment, and provides support between therapy sessions. Practical strategies include mindfulness meditation, regular physical activity, healthy eating, adequate sleep, creative expression, social connections, and professional development.
At Resolutions Therapy Practice, our therapists understand the multifaceted nature of women's mental health, including neurodivergence. We offer individualized approaches to address concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship issues, trauma recovery, and life transitions. Our services include individual counseling, relationship therapy, and family counseling, all tailored to support women's unique needs.
This Mother's Day and throughout Women's Health Month, remember that investing in your mental health benefits not only you but also those who depend on you. By taking care of your emotional wellbeing, you model healthy behavior for children, partners, and friends while building resilience to face life's challenges.
Looking for support on your journey to better health? CONTACT US to Schedule an Appointment Today.