In a world that often emphasizes physical health, Mental Health Awareness Day, observed on October 10th each year, serves as a crucial reminder of the significance of our emotional well-being. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of discussing mental health openly, as it has become increasingly evident that our emotional and psychological well-being are integral to leading fulfilling, connected lives.
The Silent Struggle
Mental health issues affect millions of people worldwide, yet they have often been shrouded in stigma and silence. Many individuals suffer silently, afraid to reach out for help or share their struggles with loved ones due to societal prejudices or fear of judgment. This culture of silence has perpetuated the misconception that mental health is a private matter and not a topic for the public eye.
Mental Health Awareness Day serves the intentions to break the stigma, show ways on how to promote self-care, how to foster empathy and support, raise awareness around mental health and to advocate for change.
Women and mental health
Research consistently shows that women are more likely than men to experience certain mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. Hormonal influences, societal pressure, intersectionality, the current state of the world, gender-based violence and more are all aspects in a woman’s life that can influence the mental health state of a woman significantly.
These factors show that women's mental health is not only a matter of gender equality but also essential for the overall well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
Our Call to Action
…this year on Mental Health Awareness Day is to have the necessary conversations. To call each other more. To track each other more. To encourage each other more, that it is not that hard to talk. That it is a lot harder to stay alone in what you are going through.
As women it is our responsibility towards one another to create spaces where safe conversations can happen, whether that is with peers or with professionals.
Our latest podcast mini-series HER STORIES - Life in a female body does exactly that. We tell the stories of women as women, that we bring together to honestly speak about their journeys, so we may see healing through these journeys. May we inspire one another, may we uplift each other.
So this is a call to care a little more, love a little louder and with a lot more sincerity. If you know someone who is struggling check in regularly. Check in to see how you can be of better support. Call them. Write them encouraging notes. Send flowers. Cook a home cooked meal. Take them on a walk to nature. Show them how to love themselves better.
With love,
Ananda Soul
