Mad, Bad or Sad? How the structure of our society is harming women’s mental health

Studies show that women across all ages experience a higher level of psychological distress than men.   What is going on in our society that is causing and perpetuating this? 

Main issues our female clients often present with – life transitions, domestic violence, trauma, attachment issues, family pressures and so on are clearly important issues and have been widely explored. However, therapists would also benefit from holding an awareness of the systemic, unseen societal pressures and influences on women’s mental health. 

Since the inception of mental health studies in the 1800s, women’s mental health has been dismissed (mad, bad, sad or hysterical) and women’s physical and hormonal health has been taboo or researched predominantly through the male lens. Research continues to show that the very structure of our society is set up in ways in which mainstream society is only just beginning to recognise – ways which perniciously impact on women. 

This presentation will explore how these historical and contemporary biases add to the psychological distress of women in our society, providing therapists with a vital broader context for their work with women.

Kat completed her MA in Integrative Psychotherapy in London, UK. She spent the first decade of her career in private practice in the east end of London, as well as working for the London Ambulance Service, mental health charity Mind, and for refugee organisations Freedom from Torture and the Mapesbury Clinic (now closed). Her work in London led to a specialisation in trauma. 

Since arriving in Brisbane in 2014, Kat has been working with individuals and couples in private practice. She remains accredited by the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy and is a clinical member of PACFA. Through her work, Kat has developed a keen interest in women’s mental health and unacknowledged ways their health is affected.

For PACFA Registrants, the course counts as 1.5 hours of Category A CPD (Continuing Professional Development).

PACFA Members $18(incl. GST)
Student Members $15 (incl. GST)
Non-Members $30 (incl. GST)

REFUND POLICY:

Cancellations made more than 5 working days prior to the course commencement date may apply via email to [email protected] for a 50% refund.
Cancellations made 5 or less working days prior to the course commencement date are 100% non-refundable and cannot be transferred to a future course or event.