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Young women are increasingly presenting with mental health struggles, including self-harm, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.

Mental Health Support for Young Women

Young women seeking mental health support often receive general assessments and standard treatments. The field of mental health largely employs a gender-blind approach, which fails to account for the unique biological, psychological and social factors that affect young women. Consequently, traditional diagnostic labels and treatments are proving inadequate for this demographic.

The Role of Trauma

A significant factor contributing to the rise in mental health issues among young women is trauma. Experiences of emotional, physical, or sexual trauma can have profound impacts on their developing brains. 

In Australia, the high rates of violence against women exacerbate these issues, leading to long-lasting mental health problems. Trauma from childhood, combined with further experiences of violence in adulthood, greatly influences mental health outcomes for many young women.

Social Challenges and Identity Formation

Young women face numerous social challenges, such as academic and career pressures, maintaining body image, and developing social networks. Social media further complicates these issues by setting unrealistic expectations and creating emotional distress. 

The recent pandemic intensified feelings of loneliness and isolation, particularly among young women, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.

Impact of Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle also plays a significant role in the mental health of young women. Trauma can alter brain chemistry and hormone regulation, making some women more susceptible to anxiety and depression during lower estrogen phases. 

Conditions like premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) highlight the need for hormone-specific treatments, which are often overlooked.

Building Self-Esteem and Addressing Anger

Poor self-esteem and suppressed anger are common issues among young women. Traditional models of femininity discourage the expression of anger, leading to inward-directed frustration and self-harm. 

Understanding the underlying causes of self-harm requires a compassionate and empowering approach. Labeling these behaviors as manipulative or as symptoms of borderline personality disorder often dismisses the seriousness of their struggles.

A Call for Change

The mental health challenges faced by young women are complex, with intertwined biological, psychological, and social factors. A new, woman-focused approach to mental health care is essential. This approach should be holistic and empowering, addressing the specific needs of young women and providing compassionate support. 

Investing in such a strategy is crucial to effectively address the rising tide of mental illness among young women. It is time for a change in how mental health services are provided to this vulnerable group.