Normalizing Mental Health at the OBGYN
For everyone from Olympic athletes to our favorite pop stars, mental health has become a more prevalent topic in the United States in recent years. It is an important and serious topic, because ignoring it can lead to a lot of unnecessary suffering. One of our goals is to normalize mental health at the OBGYN, as it can be treated.
Women often think they must suffer their depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues in silence. You do not! You should discuss mental health at your annual gynecological exam, obstetrician appointments, and any of your healthcare visits. We are here to help you with your health, and that includes your mental health and wellbeing. Mental health issues can be treated effectively, but they must be identified and addressed.
Why It’s Important to Talk About Mental Health
Mental health issues can take many forms, including anxiety and depression that can be debilitating. Depression is prevalent in our country, with one quarter of women experiencing it at any given time, and over 36 percent of women experiencing it at least once in their life. Twice as many women as men have experienced depression, so women will benefit from being diligent about their mental state.
You don’t have to have been through a trauma or abuse to have mental health issues. As many women know, having a baby can be a source of anxiety and postpartum depression. Gaining weight, experiencing an injury or illness, or the stress of caregiving for an older parent or dependent child can be associated with mental health challenges. While research shows that childhood trauma can increase the risk of mental and physical health issues later in life, you don’t have to have a reason to experience depression or anxiety.
Women may be more prone to mental health issues because they can be an effect of so many common aspects of being a woman, such as:
· Hormone changes of pregnancy and menopause
· Postpartum depression
· Loss of pregnancy
· Difficulty conceiving and infertility
· Breastfeeding problems
· Chronic pain
· Gender identity issues
· Weight/body issues
· Parenting
· Caregiving
Checking in on Your Mental Health
When you’re having difficulty getting through the day, it’s time to address your mental health. We encourage you to check in with yourself and how you’re feeling, and to state how you’re feeling out loud. What does it sound like? Here are some thoughts women should share with healthcare providers:
What is wrong with me?
I just don’t feel right.
I don’t think I can take any more of this.
I’m struggling.
I drink in excess or use substances.
Why can’t I lose weight?
I have huge mood swings.
I don’t want to care for my own baby.
I worry too much.
I have negative thoughts all the time.
Why can’t I conceive?
No one cares.
If any of these statements rings true to you, please mention it to your doctor. She can help you determine the next steps to get you back on track with your mental and emotional wellbeing.
Remember, if you are having a crisis and need to talk to someone, text or dial 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was created to help people in distress.
