Years of waiting for diagnosis causing mental distress for women
For Samantha Banton, accessing an endometriosis diagnosis in WA's Pilbara took a significant toll on her mental health, and new research indicates she is not alone.
Women suffering from medical conditions like endometriosis often face heightened mental health struggles, according to a recent report. In remote and regional Australia, accessing health services can present additional obstacles. The report urges for increased investment in women's healthcare and encourages women to be strong advocates for their own health.
Samantha Banton is among those who waited nearly two decades for an endometriosis diagnosis. Banton, who experienced excruciating pain starting as a teenager, visited multiple GPs in Geraldton, 400 kilometers north of Perth, but received no answers. The lack of diagnosis led to mental distress as Banton resorted to self-diagnosis and felt dismissed by medical professionals.
After a laparoscopy, Banton finally received a severe endometriosis diagnosis. However, the years of uncertainty significantly impacted her mental health. Banton recounted the cycle of symptom searching and self-doubt, becoming trapped in rabbit holes questioning her lifestyle and choices.
A study by Women's Mental Health Australia found that women with female-specific physical conditions like endometriosis suffer greater psychological distress compared to women with conditions affecting both sexes. Professor Bronwyn Graham, a neuroscientist and co-author of the report, explained that the connection lies in the underdiagnosis of these conditions, leading to years of discomfort and pain.
The symptoms themselves cause mental health distress, and the way they are received within the healthcare system adds secondary distress, exacerbating the symptoms.
One of the main challenges women face in seeking mental health support is service availability, particularly in regional and remote areas. These areas often have limited service providers and long waiting times for appointments. The study highlighted the impact of isolation, limited service providers, and the cost of medical treatment in these regions.
The report recommends improved "wrap-around" care, integrating mental health support into routine healthcare. Professor Graham emphasized the fragmented nature of current service delivery, which fails to address the complex requirements of modern healthcare. She urged women to advocate for their healthcare needs, as they know their bodies best. For Samantha Banton, receiving a diagnosis after years of pain brought both joy and sadness, as it provided an answer but also reminded her of the long struggle.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
