Women, the Economy, and Mental Health

The bad economy affects us in so many ways. Job uncertainty affects our earnings, and puts stress on everyone in the family. Since women are usually the ones that put everyone else before themselves, it should come as no surprise that the economy has had an impact on their health.

A new survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) confirms that the more than two-thirds (68%) of women feel the current economic crisis has had a negative impact on them and their families.

• More than half (55%) said the current problems with the economy have had a negative impact on their mental health.
• Despite the negative impact on their mental well-being, most of the women prioritized others’ needs and other responsibilities over their own mental and physical health.
• Although 76 percent of women polled say they are participating in more positive activities than they were six months ago, they also report sharp increases in stress, anxiety, frustration and other negative mental health indicators over the same time period.

The survey reiterates a woman’s tendency to put others’ needs before her own, and shows how important it is that she addresses her own mental health needs so she can more effectively address the needs of her family. HealthyMinds.org offers women and their families information on mental health and the economy as well as a variety of other mental health topics.

The survey looked at women between the ages of 30-54 years old. To help combat this, the APA has provided us with a graphic resource to help women find a healthy way to cope.

Image: APA