Invisible Battles, Unbreakable Spirits: Supporting Women’s Mental Health

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and The EmpowerHER Project would like to take a moment to honor the courageous women who continue to face their mental health challenges with strength and resilience. We recognize and appreciate your presence here today, despite the obstacles you may have encountered.

Mental health is a global issue, affecting individuals in diverse and complex ways. Factors such as sex, race, socioeconomic status, and personal background shape each person’s experience. Currently, approximately 1 in 5 women live with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or eating disorders. Alarmingly, around 75% of these conditions manifest before the age of 24, placing young women at the highest risk for mental health struggles.

While awareness of mental health has improved, the stigma surrounding therapy and seeking support continues to prevent many from accessing the care they deserve. This is especially concerning as the rates of suicide and self-harm—now among the leading causes of death for teenagers and young adults—are steadily increasing.

If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a trusted adult or seek support from the resources listed below. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Your voice, your ideas, your presence, and most importantly, you matter. Thank you for staying with us, and thank you for being here.

Mental Health Resources:

Unapologetically– Hosted by licensed female therapists, this podcast is about honest conversations and empowering women.

National Institute of Mental Health – Women and  Mental  Health

SAFEProject– is an organization designed to make women feel heard and have access to resources for mental health and substance use.

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders Phone Number: 630-577-1333

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call or Text 988

Sources:

Alshaw. “September Is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.” Senator Kevin Hertel, 21 Sept. 2023, senatedems.com/hertel/2023/09/21/september-is-suicide-prevention-awareness-month/. Accessed 05 Sept. 2024. 

The Importance of Women’s Mental Health | McLean Hospital, www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/why-we-need-pay-attention-womens-mental-health. Accessed 05 Sept. 2024. 

“Women and Mental Health.” Mental Health Foundation, www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/women-and-mental-health. Accessed 05 Sept. 2024. 

“Women’s Mental Health Facts.” Agenda Alliance, www.agendaalliance.org/our-work/projects-and-campaigns/womens-mental-health-facts/. Accessed 05 Sept. 2024.