In recent years we have seen a cry for more accessible mental health care in the United States. Mental health care is regarded by most as a luxury not available to everyone, and certainly not available to the poor.
Globally, the lack of mental health care is just as prevalent, if not more prevalent, than in the United States, particularly in developing countries. I propose widespread mental health care that is available for anyone who wants it. Ready access to mental health care will assist in the well-being of women across the globe.
When individuals have the tools to cope with mental health issues, they will experience relief from some of their burdens, find solutions to their problems and gain confidence in the future. When psychosocial care is added to the medical system, and counselors work in conjunction with medical professionals, individuals are better able to cope with psychological stressors and cumulative trauma. This becomes very important in countries that have high levels of both of these things.
Women’s health and well-being have been shown to be influenced by factors such as poverty, burden of paid and unpaid work (such as childcare and home), chronic illness, domestic and other types of violence and discrimination. Physical health and mental health are often correlated, and many do not understand that women’s mental health is as important as women’s physical health.
In countries where physical health isn’t even a priority, it is hard to argue that mental health should be made a priority as well. However, I believe that if we work on improving factors that contribute to the well-being of women, their mental health may potentially improve as well. In turn, improvement in mental health may also increase the physical health and well-being of women.
Individuals who have tools to cope with mental health issues may experience greater satisfaction with their lives. In countries such as Afghanistan, said to be one of the poorest countries in the world, individuals who experience mental health issues such as depression have no tools to help with the problems they experience. This can be generalized to many countries throughout the world, poor and rich alike. Women who are not well-versed in mental health tools may find they have no means of dealing with the symptoms and feelings that they have. Naiveté to the illnesses and diagnoses can cause many to feel helpless and hopeless.
Lastly, a push for mental health services globally needs to become as important as the push for global health services. Although issues of maternal health care and gender equality are deemed of utmost importance, maybe it’s time to consider mental health care equally as important. Mental health care providers can work hand in hand with doctors to provide women comprehensive treatment for both physical and mental issues. Women who receive mental health care treatment are more adept at dealing with psychological stressors and trauma. Globally, women experience high levels of both stress and trauma.
In summary, I believe that mental health accessibility to women around the globe should be prioritized, much like physical health has been in recent years. Increased access to mental health care may increase a women’s satisfaction with her life. In turn, mental well-being may contribute to physical well-being. When women have tools to help them cope with mental health issues, they will experience hope and positivity in the future. Mental health in conjunction with physical health should be the ideal that we are aiming for when it comes to women’s global health.
Florrie Nuttall
Florrie Nuttall, Mapleton, is a second-year graduate student at the University of Utah, scheduled to receive her master of social work degree in May.