Mental Health impacts of Dyspraxia in women
Verbal dyspraxia impacts on accessing mental health services for both men and women causes challenges. Women are up to 82% more likely to be mis/undiagnosed putting women at a greater risk of mental health issues.
Developmental coordination disorder, commonly known as dyspraxia, is a neurological disorder that affects the ability to plan and coordinate physical movements. While both men and women are affected by dyspraxia, there is a growing concern about the challenges faced by dyspraxic women in accessing mental health services. This article will explore the difficulties dyspraxic women face in accessing mental health services, the impact of undiagnosed and unsupported dyspraxia on their mental health, and strategies that can be implemented to support them.
Dyspraxic women face significant challenges in accessing mental health services due to the lack of awareness and understanding of developmental coordination disorder by healthcare professionals. Often, dyspraxia, especially when speech is affected, can be misdiagnosed as anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions. This can lead to delays in accessing appropriate treatment and support. Furthermore, the symptoms of dyspraxia can make it difficult for women to navigate mental health services, such as filling out forms, communicating their needs, and attending appointments. As a result, many dyspraxic women struggle to access the support they need to manage their mental health.
The impact of unsupported or misdiagnosed dyspraxia on the mental health of women can be significant. Dyspraxic women are at a higher risk of developing mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The challenges they face in daily life, such as difficulty with fine motor skills, coordination or speech disturbances, can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation. Additionally, the lack of understanding of dyspraxia by mental health professionals can exacerbate these feelings, leading to further mental health issues.
There are strategies and accommodations that can be implemented by mental health professionals to support dyspraxic women. For example, tailored therapy approaches that take into account the unique challenges faced by dyspraxic women can be effective. Assistive technology, such as speech-to-text or dictation software, can also be helpful in overcoming the difficulties dyspraxic women face in accessing mental health services specifically for those who experience verbal dyspraxia difficulties. Providing clear and concise information about mental health services and accommodations can help dyspraxic women navigate the system more effectively.
To summarise, dyspraxic women face significant challenges in accessing mental health services due to the lack of awareness and understanding of developmental coordination disorder by healthcare professionals. The impact of unsupported dyspraxia on the mental health of women can be significant, with higher risks of developing anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. However, with the implementation of tailored strategies and accommodations, mental health professionals can support dyspraxic women and help them to manage their mental health effectively. It is important for healthcare professionals to increase their understanding of dyspraxia and provide appropriate support to dyspraxic women.
