The Superwoman Schema, Hormonal Changes, and Mental Health: Breaking Stereotypes and Seeking Care in BIWOC Communities
Introduction: Superwoman Schema and Managing Mood Symptoms due to Hormonal Changes
The impact of hormonal changes on a woman's mental health can be a complex and sensitive topic. There are hormonal changes that occur during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum with and without breastfeeding, and during menopause. Unfortunately, many people are not well versed in providing care to women experience mood symptoms due to hormonal changes and may not even recognize the signs or symptoms. Furthermore, the stigma related to these experiences can deter individuals from seeking help, leading to under-diagnoses and inadequate support. This is especially true for true for Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color communities. The superwoman schema, prevalent in BIWOC communities, places immense pressure on women to be strong, resilient, and self-reliant, even in the face of adversity without showing any vulnerability. When this is combined with mood symptoms due to hormonal changes, such as those experienced during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause, this can create a challenging situation. As BIWOC may feel compelled to hide their emotional struggles, fearing that seeking help would be perceived as a sign of weakness, contrary to the superwoman ideal. This societal pressure can lead to a reluctance to seek care for mood symptoms and physical symptoms, as women may internalize the belief that they must bear their burdens silently, avoiding any acknowledgment of vulnerability.
Hanging up Superwoman’s Cape
As a result, many BIWOC may suffer in silence, without the necessary support and resources to manage their emotional well-being effectively. And when they do step forward to seek care regarding their concerns it can fall deaf ears due to systemic issues of racism and sexism within healthcare. Overcoming these barriers requires breaking down stereotypes, challenging stigmas, and fostering a culture of open dialogue and understanding within BIWOC communities and in healthcare, emphasizing that seeking care for mental health is not a sign of weakness, but an essential step towards empowerment and overall well-being. My aim is to provide valuable information and support to individuals experiencing these challenges.
Hormones and Their Impact on Mood Throughout the Reproductive Life Cycle
Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including emotions. Estrogen and progesterone, the primary female sex hormones, influence neurotransmitters in the brain, affecting mood and behavior. During different phases of the menstrual cycle, hormone levels fluctuate, leading to mood changes. An example of this is the occurrence of Premenstrual Mood Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) which is a condition characterized by intense mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and other emotional symptoms that occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, significantly affecting a woman's daily functioning and well-being. The luteal phase occurs after ovulation and before the start of menstruation that typically lasts 10-16 days. Separately women who have already been diagnosed with a mood disorder such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder may experience an exacerbation of symptoms which is called Premenstrual Mood Exacerbation (PME). During pregnancy, hormonal shifts, particularly the rise in estrogen and progesterone levels, can contribute to mood swings, heightened emotions, and even prenatal depression or anxiety in some women. After childbirth, the sudden drop in these hormones can result in the development of "baby blues" or postpartum depression, leading to feelings of sadness, irritability, anxiety, and fatigue. Similarly, during menopause, as the ovaries produce fewer hormones like estrogen and progesterone, women may encounter mood swings, increased irritability, and feelings of sadness.
Treating Mood Symptoms
Treating mood symptoms involves a holistic approach, combining medical interventions, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Medications such as antidepressants may be prescribed to stabilize mood, while therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can help individuals with emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Another option is to consider nutritional supplementation with the guidance of a reproductive integrative psychiatrist, functional medicine doctor, or nutritionist.
The Role of Nutrition and Exercise
A balanced diet and regular exercise contribute significantly to women's mental health. A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B-vitamins, and minerals can support overall mental well-being and may help alleviate mood swings and irritability by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers.
In addition, engaging in moderate physical activities like walking, strength training, yoga, or swimming can provide relaxation and contribute to mood improvement. Emphasizing these aspects in daily life can complement other treatment approaches. As with any health-related concerns, it is advisable for women to consult with healthcare professionals to create personalized nutrition and exercise plan that cater to their specific needs and circumstances. You might even consider connecting with functional nutritionist for additional support.
Support Systems and Community Engagement
Having a strong support system is invaluable when navigating hormonal changes and managing mood symptoms. Family members, friends, or support groups can provide a safe space for women to share their experiences, emotions, and concerns, reducing feelings of isolation and normalizing their struggles. Engaging with others who have gone through similar experiences can foster a sense of empathy and understanding, offering valuable advice and coping strategies. Support systems can also provide practical help, such as assisting with household tasks, childcare, or offering respite to ease the burden during particularly challenging times. Additionally, community engagement, whether through local support groups, online forums, or educational workshops, can empower women with knowledge about hormonal changes and mood symptoms, leading to better self-awareness and the ability to seek appropriate resources and professional help when needed. It is important to recognize that you are not alone in this experience and sometimes this will require those around increasing their own knowledge around the occurrence of mood changes due to hormonal shifts.
Education and awareness are our most powerful tools in dismantling stigma. Challenging stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding women's mental health can foster empathy and understanding. By promoting accurate information, we can create an inclusive and supportive environment for women facing mental health challenges.
Finding the Care You Need
Empowering women within BIWOC communities to advocate for their mental health needs is essential. By creating safe spaces for discussions and promoting self-advocacy, we can amplify their voices and ensure their mental health concerns are heard and addressed. This is one of the many reason why I created Bloom and Build Integrative Psychiatry, to help women and their support systems feel seen and heard and offer solutions that may not have been considered before. Mental health professionals who are sensitive to cultural nuances and can offer culturally relevant interventions are better equipped to address the unique needs and concerns of BIWOC individuals. In addition to women's mental health specialist, it may be important to speak with your obstetrician/gynecologist about treatment options as well.
Conclusion
Navigating hormonal changes and managing mood symptoms in women's mental health is a journey that requires understanding, compassion, and support. For BIWOC communities, tackling stigma is an additional challenge that demands collective efforts and should not solely rest on the people that it is directly impacting. By fostering awareness, promoting empathy, and providing culturally competent care, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women, regardless of their background or experiences. If you are interested in learning more about the treatment options at Bloom and Build Integrative Psychiatry please visit the Reproductive Integrative Psychiatry page or schedule a consultation.
*Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. The content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers concerning your individual medical condition or treatment.
