CELEBRATING WOMEN'S MENTAL HEALTH

March 8, we celebrated women across the world for International Women's Day.

IWD was established in 1911 to celebrate women's achievements, make their voices heard, and fight for gender equality both in the workplace and in the home. It also highlights many of the inspirational women around the world who, in the face of adversity and discrimination, have challenged the status quo. Thankfully, we have seen a great deal of advancement for socio-economic rights of women over the past century, with women taking up more leadership roles, running businesses, and in high profile and high pressure political positions. Sadly, despite the many years of struggle for a fairer world, the need for IWD remains as important as ever.

According to the World Health Organization, one in three women are affected by mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Some mental health challenges are more common in women than men, and also affect women differently than men. This really isn't surprising when you think of what women have on their plate, and the constant juggling to manage it all. Women generally find it easier to talk about their feelings, including difficult and dark feelings, and have stronger social networks, both of which can help protect their mental health.

This year's theme was embrace equity. In order to live in an equitable society, we must embrace change across genders and throughout our communities. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women's achievements or rally for women's equality. It's been a difficult few years for women through the pandemic as it changed the amount of work for women, the way that work was done, while also managing the added stress and fear that comes with a global health-care crisis. There are still many layers to unpack as a result of the heightened anxiety and fear many women experienced locally, and around the world.

Since the pandemic, we've seen a steady increase in women locally reaching out for support at CMHA Waterloo Wellington, which is encouraging. There are many supports and services available to support and enhance women's mental health in our community — let's continue to support the message that reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. The combination of formal mental health supports coupled with a strong, informal network of care and support provides the best outcomes for women.

We need to show our deep love, respect and appreciation for the amazing and inspiring women in our lives, but let's never forget .... this needs to be a daily practice. We need to continue taking action to level the playing field. Actively calling out gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping each time you see it is an amazing way to celebrate and honour women.

Helen Fishburn is the CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington. Helen is a lifelong advocate for increased awareness of mental health issues and has dedicated her career to advancing the design of an improved mental healthcare system.