Research says that women are twice as likely as men to be affected by mental depression. Depression, specifically clinical and unipolar depression, is on the verge of becoming a “global disability burden.” Behavioral or mental issues can affect men and women differently for numberless reasons. It is sometimes difficult to calculate how deeply it affects and distorts a woman’s mind and body. Specific behavioural issues are known to affect women specifically. These behavioural and mental issues in women can arise due to numberless reasons. Therefore, it is essential to arrest and diagnose such conditions as early as possible to prevent further spread.
What is more worrying is that the Covid situation has seen an increase in mental health issues among women. Approximately 1 out of 5 women suffer from some mental issues. Several developing countries have come up with women’s health helpline centers. This allows women to get 24*7 mental health assistance and recommended treatments. However, the situation is likely to be worse in underdeveloped countries.
Mental health issues among women are still taboo in many countries. As a result, women cannot access quality healthcare. This results in the complexation of the existing condition. Many women are unaware of the symptoms of behavioral issues.
ZeaMed, like always, has come up with solutions for coping with mental issues in women. We have recognized the factors that have made women ignorant of behavioral issues. Let us know what behavioral issues in women are and how one can cope.
Behavioral issues in women: What and When?
Let us know what behavioral disorders mean in general. Behavioral/Mental issues, also known as Behavioral and emotional disorders, refer to inappropriate actions and emotions under normal circumstances. Following are some of the common behavioral disorders:
- Emotional disorders.
- Anxiety disorders
- Disruptive behavioral disorders
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
These were some common mental/behavioral disorders affecting men and women. Both men and women can suffer from mental/behavioral disorders. However, mental disorders can affect women differently, and some diseases are more common in women than men.
Specific hormonal changes in women can affect their mental and behavioral conditions from time to time. The hormonal changes in the following conditions can affect a woman’s mind and behavior:
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Perimenopause
- Perinatal depression
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- Any other hormonal change
Are you a woman and a victim of mental health? Yes? Keep reading below to know the complete details.
No? But do you wish to educate yourself and help your loved ones?
You are at the right place! Keep scrolling below.
What are the symptoms of mental/behavioral disorders in women?
WHO states that “health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” Therefore, recognition and treatment of mental diseases/behavioral issues should no longer be a taboo. ZeaMed encourages every woman to freely discuss their mental health needs and seek assistance when necessary.
There are sure warning signs about behavioral disorders in women. If you discover any of these in yourself or your loved ones, feel free to take medical advice.
- Misuse of alcohol/drugs, excessive alcohol
- A continued period of sadness and hopelessness
- Noticeable changes in food and sleep patterns, especially after pregnancy or during menopause.
- Sudden weight gain/loss.
- Body aches, fever, headache, digestive problems without a clear cause.
- Excessive fear
- Panic attacks, hot flushes
- Irritation
- Anxiety
- Suicidal tendencies
- Withdrawal from society.
Some women also experience post-traumatic stress syndrome(PTSD). Women suffering from mental/behavioral disorders may also suffer anorexia and bulimia. These are binge-eating disorder cases.
Why do women react differently to mental health issues?
There are several reasons why women may react differently as compared to men.
- The female body releases several hormones which are different from men. The most common hormone in women, estrogen, can prevent several mental disorders.
- The female body produces lesser serotonin, which is a mood stabilizer. As a result, women tend to become more anxious and suffer from severe mental issues in the later stage. On the other hand, the male body produces enough serotonin.
- Stress factor is more among women than men. As women are still the primary caregivers in the family, they tend to work under a lot of pressure. Along with it, women face more social stigma as compared to men. In underdeveloped countries, housewives have limited freedom to interact with society. They spend their maximum time at home indulging in household chores. As a result, they become anxious, irritated and depressed.
- Specific economic factors are also responsible for women suffering from behavioral issues. In developing countries, women suffering from mental health issues can visit a specialist. However, that’s not an effortless case among third-world countries! Women have a fear of being judged by society. Moreover, these women are not aware of what importance mental health holds.
- Sometimes, working mothers go through an emotional roller coaster ride! As they have to leave their children back at home or creche, they develop a guilt factor. Working /single mothers are helpless as they are required to do the job. We talk about women’s empowerment and the need to be economically independent. On the other hand, we allow women to be guilty of leaving their children, family etc., at home. This leads to a lot of stress which mutates into behavioral issues. Working women suffer from a lot of behavioral issues post-delivery.
How can women cope with mental/behavioral issues?
The WHO recognizes mental health and its importance. The 21st century is witnessing the growth of several organizations emphasizing mental health issues. Several social activists, artists etc., are opening up about behavioral issues in women. The first way to cope with mental issues is to accept the fact that, yes, mental health is essential. Women must accept that they can be mentally ill. The women folk must come forward and discuss their experiences. Hospitals must look forward to accepting women patients suffering from behavioral issues.
ZeaMed has always looked for the empowerment of women. ZeaMed believes that psychotherapy can help solve mental health issues in women. Sometimes, family therapy can be a boon in curing mental health issues.
Let us look for the ways how women can cope with mental issues-
Visiting a doctor: If you cannot control your emotions and react vulnerably or angrily to a situation, consult a specialist. If you feel such an emotional issue continues over a prolonged period, you might suffer from a behavioral problem. There is no shame in visiting a doctor.
Exercise and meditate: Meditation can calm your body and relax your muscles. It is an old Indian tradition that is now embraced by people worldwide. Yoga is known to fight mental depression in women. Exercising can help in the healthy flow of blood in the body and makes the hormones work effectively in women. However, consult your physician about the type of exercises you should do.
Expressing emotions: Sometimes, speaking up can relieve mental pressure. Find a friend or a family member to whom you can open up. The rehabilitation centers also have such peer groups where you can open up. When you join such a group, you can interact with other women. This will help you to analyze your problems.
Get rest: Sometimes, getting good sleep can solve your stress and anxiety. Your physician will always recommend sound sleep for at least 7-9 hours during stress periods. If the physician feels, they can prescribe you medications for it.
Go for Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy can solve several behavioral issues in women. You can visit our website and book a psychotherapy session with our experts. Ours is a stress-free booking where you can compare the prices of psychotherapy.
Let us reduce the global burden of mental health issues by educating people about it. Let’s encourage women to discuss mental health issues.
References:
https://www.who.int/about/governance/constitution
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/women-and-mental-health
https://www.everydayhealth.com/womens-health/mental-health-issues-in-women.aspx
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/5545-women-and-stress
https://www.who.int/about/governance/constitution
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/women-and-mental-health
https://www.everydayhealth.com/womens-health/mental-health-issues-in-women.aspx
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/5545-women-and-stress