Women and the Workplace: Coping with Gender Bias and Its Mental Strains
It’s hard to believe that we’re still having conversations about gender bias in the 21st century. But, if you’re a woman, you undoubtedly understand the need for these continued conversations. You also understand an even greater need for change — especially in the workplace.
For years, the gender pay gap has been the focus of much attention, and it’s an important topic to keep fighting for. But it’s not the only gender-based issue women in the workplace face.
Let’s take a closer look at gender bias at work and how it could be impacting your mental health.
What Is Gender Bias?
Workplace gender bias occurs when someone (in this case, women) experiences disadvantages, unfair treatment, or even maltreatment at work solely because of their gender.
Unequal pay is usually the most obvious form of gender bias, but it’s certainly not the only one. If your male co-workers seem to receive favoritism, have more growth opportunities or benefits, or simply seem to be more involved in the “community” of your work environment, that’s considered gender bias.
Additionally, if you’ve felt victimized by gender stereotypes or experienced any kind of harassment in the workplace, that’s a serious form of gender bias that should be addressed right away.
Does Gender Bias Impact Your Mental Health?
You don’t have to look far to see that gender bias all over the country has a direct impact on the mental well-being of women. Women are twice as likely to develop anxiety disorders, depression, and panic disorders. They are more than twice as likely to develop PTSD. While gender bias and discrimination aren’t the sole contributors to these issues, they do play a part.
In the workplace, women who experience gender bias have to deal with extra stress. If you feel like you have to work twice as hard just to get the same recognition, you’re putting yourself at risk of burnout and anxiety. If you don’t feel appreciated at work, you could develop depression. Some women might not even feel safe or comfortable at work because of the culture or environment surrounding them, which can wreak havoc on their mental health.
It’s not uncommon for women who experience gender bias to deal with lower self-esteem and confidence. If you’re disregarded long enough, it will take a toll on how you see yourself. Unfortunately, that can create a sort of vicious cycle. The lower your self-esteem, the harder it’s going to be to stay strong and fight back against gender bias at work.
What Can You Do?
The best thing you can do to combat the mental health strains associated with gender bias is to prioritize your emotional well-being. Practice self-care every day. That might include mindfulness, meditation, or journaling. Even things like exercising or socializing with friends can help to boost your mental health.
It’s also important to decide if the workplace environment you’re currently in is right for you. Obviously, not everyone is able to leave their job at a moment’s notice. However, if gender bias at work negatively impacts your quality of life, address it with management. Some employers are more than willing to make changes to the environment if they know their employees aren’t being treated fairly. If things don’t change, consider looking for a different place to work.
Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out for help and support, especially if your mental health is already struggling. Therapy is a great way to express your emotions and learn how to process them effectively. You can also learn strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and depression while you do what you can to fight back against gender bias. Give our office a call to make your first appointment.
