BREAKING THE SILENCE: WHY WE MUST PRIORITIZE GIRLS MENTAL HEALTH GIRLS

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The month of May hosted the mental health awareness week and our focus at SACHEM was on why the mental health of girls should be priority.

Mental health is as critical to overall well-being as physical health, yet it is often misunderstood—especially when it comes to girls. There is a persistent, harmful belief that if a person isn’t visibly struggling or in crisis, they cannot be experiencing mental health challenges. This misconception is a dangerous barrier to getting professional support.

Reality check is understanding that according to research reports, one in five women between the ages of 16 and 24 experiences at least one mental health issue. It also emphasizes that 78% of these cases are linked to failed relationships, sexual and physical abuse with over 22% of women worldwide suffering in silence which often leads to suicide. It should be common knowledge that mental health issues are not always the same as diagnosed mental disorders as they can affect anyone at any time.

WHAT NEXT?

It is time to stop the cycle of abuse, violence, and discrimination. Mental health should be a top priority as physical health. Girls an women should shift that culture of silence and start speaking up and seeking professional help.  By promoting awareness and creating an enabling environment and support, we can help break the silence that currently leaves so many young women and girls unsupported.