International Women’s Day Celebrating Women Pioneers in Healthcare
Happy International Women’s Day! Today, on March 8th, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women throughout history. It’s a day to recognize not only the significant accomplishments of women throughout society, but also that investing in women means investings in the advancement and well-being of society as a whole.
We must acknowledge the unique challenges that women face, particularly concerning mental health. Gender inequality and societal expectations can often contribute to increased stress and risk of mental health struggles for women. The pressure to maintain family, work tasks, as community responsibilities can take a huge toll on their well-being. Research by Kate Spade New York and Prospira Global found that 90% of participants surveyed agreed that women are experiencing increasing stressors simply by being a woman. For many women in places around the world, even worrying about their safety takes up a lot of mental space.
According to Statista, in 2022, it was estimated that 26.4 percent of women in the U.S. had some type of mental illness in the past year. This is significantly higher compared to 12% of men experiencing a common mental disorder, such as anxiety or depression. Additionally, there are disorders that only affect females, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, postpartum depression and perimenopausal depression. Now more than ever, women need support and encouragement for their mental well-being.
Despite these challenges, countless women throughout history and today continue to pave a way for future generations’ well-being. Check out some of those leaders below!
Mary Ainsworth was a significant figure in the field of developmental psychology. From a culmination of her work in Uganda, with the Baltimore project, and John Bowlby’s theories of research and development, she developed the attachment theory, which is used everywhere today.
Mamie Phipps Clark: Mamie Phipps Clark conducted groundbreaking research on the impact of segregation and racial prejudice on child development. Her famous doll studies provided evidence of the psychological effects of racism and played a crucial role in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court case.
Bebe Moore Campbell: Bebe Moore Campbell was a renowned author and mental health advocate who played a vital role in raising awareness about mental health issues, particularly within minority communities. Through her writing and advocacy efforts, Campbell shed light on the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups in accessing mental health care.
Melanie Klein: Melanie Klein made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of mental illness, particularly in children. She developed innovative techniques and introduced the concept of the “internal world,” which laid the foundation for modern approaches to child therapy and influenced generations of mental health professionals.
From Mary Ainsworth’s groundbreaking work to Mamie Phipps Clark’s pivotal research, these pioneers have left an undeniable mark on the mental health movement. As we honor their legacy on this International Women’s Day, let us commit to advocating for a future where all women can thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.
Need resources, visit cobbcollaborative.org/resources to find tips + tools that help support mental health + community well-being.