Women's Health and International Women's Day
As International Women’s Day quickly approaches on March 8th, it is important to remember the large impact that women all over the world continue to have on society. We at Student Health and Wellness want to focus particularly on the ways in which women’s health is often put on the back burner when it comes to addressing serious health issues. Some of the most overlooked topics of women’s health include:
Reproductive and Sexual Health
Access to reproductive and sexual health services, particularly for women, is often not as accessible as it should be. Women’s reproductive needs such as contraception, menstrual symptoms, prenatal and postnatal services, and screening services are an essential part of ensuring the livelihood of women in society. These services are often viewed as non-important in many countries, leading to women facing health challenges, both mentally and physically.
Mental and Physical Health
Mental health plays a large role in the lives of women and people in general. However, women’s mental health issues are often overlooked and associated with it being “that time of the month.” Physical health is intertwined with one’s mental health as without having good physical health, our mental health declines and vice versa. By addressing the physical and mental needs of women and actually listening to their needs, rather than simply ignoring them, women can lead healthier and happier lives.
Body Image
As university students, body image is often an overwhelming thought for everyone. How we perceive ourselves is often very different than how others see us. With society constantly pushing unrealistic beauty standards on women, it is difficult to accept ourselves as we are without the fear and judgment by ourselves and other people. It is important to remember that everyone’s body is different, strong, unique, and beautiful. By promoting body positivity such as consuming media with different representations, it encourages self-acceptance and can reduce the risk of other mental health struggles.
Student Health and Wellness has many supports available to all students who may be struggling in any of the aspects mentioned above. For more information on the supports accessible to you as a Lakehead student, visit https://www.lakeheadu.ca/students/wellness-recreation/student-health-and-wellness/about
- Makayla Foster, Peer Wellness Educator Lead
