Menstruation and mental health: Uncovering the hidden challenges

Menstruation and mental health: Uncovering the hidden challenges (Photo: iStock)

For most girls and women, menstruation is about more than just the physical aspect. It also affects their emotional state. While most people recognise the physical symptoms of menstruation, such as cramps, bloating and fatigue, fewer recognise the mental and emotional challenges that accompany it.

Menstruation is a normal process. However, in certain regions, particularly rural and impoverished communities, it is stigmatised. Girls are told not to speak about it. They may be made to feel impure or ashamed. This silence can create fear, confusion and embarrassment. Without anyone to ask questions of or share things with, girls may begin to think that there must be something wrong with them.