Welcome to You Should Know!

Youshouldknow.ca: sexual health news, views and science for women in perimenopause and beyond. Find info on preventing sexually transmitted infections, aging considerations, and relationship dynamics. Supportive information for all of us as we move into our middle years with partners new and old.

Tell It Like It Is About Mental Health

If you follow You Should Know on Twitter or visit regularly here, you know I’m a fan of Jenny Lawson whose online persona is The Bloggess. One of the things I like about her writing is she’s a huge advocate for mental health awareness. Her recent admission that she wrangles with depression self-harm and was terrified to share it on the web resulted in an enormous discussion / confession from her readers. 

Some may think talking about one’s personal demons so openly is a bad plan, but I think it’s a personal choice and really appreciate her honesty.  One of the things I track for You Should Know is articles on mental health and women. The focus at YSK on midlife and beyond can’t escape the emotional ups and downs of perimenopause, which can bring depression and/or anxiety. Both ends of that spectrum can be isolating and feel so shameful.  

A recent report says that one in five Americans have had mental health problems in the past year, with many youth affected.  In adult populations, women are more likely than men to struggle. If this is so common, we need to start talking.  Which is why I love The Bloggess for going “live.”

A great thing about social networking is the truly social part-it’s informative, it’s fun and it can be supportive, like in this case. It can offer relief when you realize, “Oh, I’m not the only one.”  Especially if you’re feeling, in the words of Anne Lamott,  “My mind is a neighbourhood I try not to go into alone.”

Everyone’s mind can be a lonely neighbourhood, but there really are lots of neighbours in warm homes all  around- we just have to realize that.  Imagery aside, I’m not a doctor, so do see yours if your feelings are interfering with your ability to go about your every day routines.  Some mood swings are part of normal, and others do need assessment and help.

Really, you’re not the only one.

- Janet

PS-  My post on Positive Women’s Network last week discussed the criminalization of  HIV disclosure- is it working?

Image: iStock

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