Let’s talk about Women’s Mental Health in India
The year 2020 has been a roller-coaster ride for most of us. Months have already passed and we are still at a stage where we cannot possibly tell what lies ahead of us in the months that are yet to come.
The lockdown, during the Covid-19 pandemic, which initially started as a means to flatten the curve, soon became the epicenter of a major crisis amongst women in India. A crisis, which is so deep-rooted that societies are often oblivious to the dogmas propagating systemic discrimination against women and girls.
Since the beginning of time, gender roles have always been prescribed to us and they still remain prevalent in many parts of the world, which means that even now men continue to have a systemic power over women.
A survey conducted by the Indian Psychiatry Society revealed that since the start of the lockdown period in March 2020, there has been a 20% rise in the number of reported cases of mental illnesses in India.
In fact, Nelson V. M., one of the leading suicide prevention advocates in India has pointed out to the fact women are currently being classified under the “at-risk” population.
While common mental health problems are generally experienced by both men and women, some tend to be more severe amongst women due a variety of bio-psycho-social factors. One must also keep in mind that physiological changes such as menstruation, childbirth, menopause, too could potentially become stressors, further contributing towards diminished mental health amongst women.
In accordance to the data derived from the American Psychological Association, up to 1 in 7 women, eventually experience “Post-Partum Depression” at some point of time.
Other social factors may include the women’s socioeconomic status as well; time and again women have been subjected to significant wage gaps, hence, in addition to that the lockdown has caused widespread job insecurity.
Subsequently, gender-based violence had also seen a rise as the nation went into lockdown. National Commission for Women (NCW), India, is on an alert mode since there has been a striking increase in the number of domestic abuse cases. Hence, now it is time that the issues related to dominance and patriarchy be systematically amended within the society.
A community-owned response must be necessitated in order to further empower women in times of distress and abuse. During conversations when we make attempts to reason out a women’s mental health condition, we must begin to acknowledge and recognize the bigger picture involving all aspects of life such as bio-psycho-social conditions as well at a broader level.
How can you help?
- Always show your support
- Encourage them to speak up
- Help them find a reliable source to seek help
Reach out to SheSpeaks Sashakta Tollfree Helpline Number (1-800-833-2300), if you need emotional and mental support! We are here for you to listen and help you in your difficult time.
