New Delhi: Mental illness has become a major problem in the modern world, and it affects women at a very alarming rate. Women commit 36.6% of suicides in India, and the most affected group is the 18-39 age group. Social stigma and fear, however, keep most women from accessing professional assistance. A survey conducted by Mpower came to light regarding women not open-mindedly expressing mental health issues for fear of professional repercussions. Other contributing reasons include sexual harassment, domestic violence, and an imbalance in personal and professional lives that are adding to worsening mental health among women.
Mpower’s Report on Women’s Mental Health
On International Women’s Day, Aditya Birla Education Trust’s Mpower initiative launched a report called ‘Unveiling the Silent Struggle,’ drawing from the data of 1.3 million women in India. The research points to the mental health issues of college students, corporate professionals, rural women, and women in the military. The results point to a number of primary stressors influencing women’s mental health:
50% of women are stressed because of work-life balance, financial stress, and societal pressures.
Insomnia affects 47% of people, particularly those between the ages of 18 and 35.
41% feel emotionally lonely.
38% of working women and students are concerned about career development and financial security.
Mental Health Issues in the Corporate World
42% of corporate women show signs of depression and anxiety.
80% face discrimination when it comes to maternity leave and career development opportunities.
90% feel that mental illnesses affect their job performance.
Mental Health Challenges Facing Rural Women
A survey carried out under Project Samvedna, in partnership with the government of Maharashtra, surveyed the mental health of 1.28 million rural women. The survey revealed that poverty, social stigma, and poor access to mental health treatment have left rural women struggling with severe depression and anxiety.
Regional Mental Health Trends Among Women (18-35 Age Group)
Mumbai: Academic burnout and corporate stress are the main issues.
Delhi: Anxiety disorders and PTSD are common because of safety issues and harassment.
Kolkata: In spite of high social support networks, women are still isolated from mental health services.
Mental Health Disorders Are Treatable
Dr Ankit Gautam, who is a psychiatrist and director of the Delhi Mpower Centre, said that women frequently face depression, anxiety, insomnia, personality disorders, and relationship issues. He pointed out that psychiatric illnesses can be treated effectively with medication, psychotherapy, or even a blend of both, based on individual requirements. Stress is still one of the most frequent causes of mental illnesses.
Role of Sleep and Yoga in Mental Well-being
Stress is increasingly affecting women from all walks of life, negatively impacting their mental health. Experts recommend yoga, proper exercise, meditation, a healthy diet, good sleep, and a social support network as essentials for maintaining mental health. Women experiencing chronic stress, depression, or anxiety should go for professional assistance and consult psychiatrists when necessary.