Ending Stigma: Supporting Women in Crisis

Did you know that suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States? The leading causes of suicide can be different for men and women. Being a woman in today's society is draining, frustrating, and unfair. There are several factors that lead up to the devastating action of suicide, how can we help those who are struggling?

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a month where we advocate for the lives lost to suicide, and those still battling. According to the CDC, 10,194 females committed suicide in 2022 which was an increase from 9,825 females in 2021. Each year people lose their ongoing battle with their mental health because they feel like there is no other escape. Spreading awareness and breaking the stigma behind suicide is the first step to making the world a better place.

We are always taught from a young age if you feel sick, go to the doctor. But what are you taught to do if you’re having dark thoughts? What if you are so anxious you can barely eat? Although it is beginning to change since COVID, mental health has a completely different stigma compared to physical health.

Mental Health America stated, “Approximately 12 million women in the United States experience clinical depression each year,” That's around one in eight women who can expect to experience depression at some point in their lives.

Women are not the only ones suffering from mental health issues. However, Regis College explains that women need an opposed strategy from men to get the help they need. Mental health symptoms show up in completely different ways when comparing them between men and women.

“Women may be less likely than men to seek treatment after experiencing symptoms of mental illness. This is due to “internalized or self-stigma” that results from their self-image being formed by how others perceive them,” According to Regis College.

There are so many different stigmas placed on women by society that can create a sense of anxiety and depression. We’ve all seen the new Barbie movie right? Actress America Ferrera, who plays Gloria snaps Margot Robbie out of her depression state just by venting about the struggle of a real woman.

This is the speech in Barbie, released in 2023 and directed by Greta Gerwig.

Social factors play a huge role in contributing to anxiety and depression in women which can then lead to suicide. It is a constant battle of being too much, or not enough. Having to be perfect all the time is enough for someone to break.

“Pressure caused by multiple societal roles and overworking has also been shown to account for poor mental health in women. Women are also more likely to be discriminated against as a consequence of their gender when compared to men,” according to McLean Hospital.

In the crazy world we live in it is important that we take time for ourselves. Taking time to care for your mental health when needed should be just as important as taking time off while having a cold. Let's talk about some things you can do to improve your mental health.

Beginning to improve your mental health:

• Talk to a therapist/psychiatrist

• Adjust your diet/research nutrition

• Soaking in sunshine

• Exercise regularly

• Visit a large body of water (e.g.: lake/ocean/river)

Things to make you feel better:

• Journaling

• Having deep conversations with your girl-friends

• Talking to your siblings/family members

• Pick up a new hobby/activity (e.g.: boxing, painting, writing)

  • Something that will be an outlet for you

Online resources that are easily accessible:

• National Suicide Prevention Hotline | Call: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Chat or Call

• Everyday Health (free online therapy)

• Mental Health America (mental health screening)

It is important to know that if you are struggling, you are not alone and you are supported here. It is okay to not be okay. If you are struggling or know someone who is struggling don’t hesitate to reach out to the resources listed above.

Always be kind, you never know what someone may be going through. Together we can help those in need and beat the stigma behind suicide.