Women’s History Month

March is Women’s History Month! This month honors women’s contributions in American history. With that being said, we want to highlight Women’s Mental Health this month. Mental health disorders can impact all people differently. Women may experience symptoms differently and some symptoms may be more common in women.

Contributing Factors for Mental Health Concerns

• Women earn less than men. Women, who work full-time, earn about ¼ less than male counterparts in a given year.
• Victims of violence. About 1 in 3 women have experienced sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
• Approximatly 65% of caregivers are women.

Barriers Women experience when seeking Mental Health Treatment

• Economic barriers — lack of insurance/cost
• Awareness about mental health issues, treatment options, and available services
• Stigma associated with mental illness
• Time/related support (time off work, child care, transportation)
• Appropriate intervention strategies including integration of mental health and primary health care services

Helplines

• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
• 24/7, free, confidential support before, during, and after pregnancyPhone or text access to professional counselorsReal-time support and informationResourcesReferrals to local and telehealth providers and support groupsCulturally sensitive supportCounselors who speak English and SpanishInterpreter services in 60 languagesCall or text 1–833–9-HELP4MOMS (1–833–943–5746)TTY users can use a preferred relay service or dial 711 and then 1–833–943–5746
• Domestic Violence Hotline
• 1–800–799-SAFE(7233)Live Chat on Website (National Domestic Violence Hotline)Text START to 88788 Safety Plan Tool
• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
• Call 988 Available 24/7Text 988 to utilize the Crisis Text Line Available 24/7 Lifeline Chat988lifeline.org/chatAvailable 24/7

Check out some of the resources to use for Women’s History Month Here.