11th Annual National Women's Health Week

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health invites you to celebrate the 11th Annual National Women's Health Week. This week-long health observance encourages communities and organizations to work together to educate and encourage women to take a few simple steps to improve their physical and mental health. The theme of the event is "It's Your Time," as it reminds women that even though they are often caregivers for children, spouses, and parents, they must not forget to take time to focus on their own health. This nationwide celebration urges women to make their own health their top priority.

The Office on Women's Health has two publications--one for health professionals and one for consumers--that focus on building positive awareness about women's mental health. They address environmental and cultural barriers to seeking help and suggest gender-appropriate strategies for recovery.



Action Steps for Improving Women's Mental Health (OWH09-Professional)

Action Steps for Improving Women's Mental Health
(OWH09-PROFESSIONAL) A report that brings together the most recent research, resources, products, and tools on mental health issues in women and explores the role gender plays in diagnosing, treating, and coping with mental illness. It also points to resilience and social support systems as key factors in overcoming mental illness.

The report outlines specific action steps for policy-makers, health care providers, researchers, and others to take in an effort to address the burden of mental illness on women's lives and increase their capacity for recovery.

Open here: 64 pages and 4.30MB
http://download.ncadi.samhsa.gov/ken/pdf/OWH09-PROFESSIONAL/ActionSteps.pdf





Women's Mental Health: What It Means to You (OWH09-Consumer)
Women's Mental Health: What It Means to You
(OWH09-CONSUMER) A consumer booklet that addresses the stigma associated with mental health, with information on the signs and symptoms of mental illness. It also provides suggestions for support and solutions for preventing and coping with mental illness.
OPEN HERE: 22 pages and 6MB
http://download.ncadi.samhsa.gov/ken/pdf/OWH09-CONSUMER/womenmentalhealth.pdf