Women ‘want recognition that their psychological vulnerability is not rooted in their ‘biology’ but in the context of their lives’ (Women’s Mental Health: Into the Mainstream – DH Publications)
We know it is important to look at women’s health holistically. Some of the reasons for this are:
Social isolation and poverty are much more common in women than men. Women experience childhood sexual abu
se, domestic abuse and sexual violence over three times more than men. Hormonal and reproductive changes impact significantly on women. Women make up more than half the workforce in Britain, yet are still the major carers of children and other family members. Women from black and minority ethnic groups are more likely to live in deprived areas, and may have a culture that does not allow them a ‘voice’. A high percentage of women offenders have a mental health problem. To address some of the issues above and targeting a wide and diverse audience, we launched Sanctuary magazine in 2007. With a growing, free subscription, we have created a virtual network among women who share the experience of mental and emotional distress. As well as women who suffer mental distress, and their supporters, the magazine is read by people from all walks of life, and especially those from or interested in the health and social care sector. Current distribution is throughout Surrey and the south east, with interest from other regions and demand growing. Our ethos is to provide a safe space for women to explore some of the issues or life events that can lead to mental, emotional and physical illness and distress. We like to say to our readers:
‘Take a break, make a coffee (or herbal tea, whatever!), put your feet up and enjoy your- FREE – Sanctuary.’
