Your Chicago Guide to Women's Mental Health Support

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, with Women’s Health Week taking place from May 10-16, so it’s the perfect time to talk about, well, you! How does life in Chicago look and feel for women who are looking to embrace the journey of wellness in their lives? 

From navigating the hustle of the Loop to finding solace in the serenity of the lakefront, Chicago offers a unique backdrop for women to prioritize their mental health at work, at home, and everywhere in between. In this blog, we'll explore life and mental health for women in the Chicago area so you can embrace your best life this May. And hey, if we can share a few things to do in Chicago for women along the way, even better! 

Mom Guilt, Juggling Roles, and the Pressure to "Have it All"

Let's first talk mom guilt. It's a heavy weight many women carry, where the pressure to be a perfect parent, career powerhouse, supportive partner, and somehow, maintain a shred of sanity for ourselves. But honestly, the reality is: there's no single path to achieving "balance," and the pressure to conform to an unrealistic ideal is a major contributor to stress and anxiety.

Here's the good news: You're not alone. Countless women in this vibrant city share your struggles and there is a path forward. Together, we can create a space where vulnerability isn't a weakness, but a strength. That can start at home, in the way you talk to or think about yourself—or in session with one of our excellent therapists who are ready to help you have it all by giving you permission to have what you need to be okay.

Pressure isn’t just for moms though! What does “having it all” mean to you?

Feeling stretched thin between career aspirations and personal goals? Working at your job, working on yourself, and working through the pressures to meet societal expectations and meet the arbitrary milestones in life can be… a lot. 

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Many Chicago women juggle these pressures, their relationships, and their mental health alongside a desire for professional fulfillment. If you want to achieve at work without adding to your plate, we’ve got just the thing. Career coaching can help by working with you to identify your strengths, navigate career transitions, and design a path that aligns with your vision of a balanced and fulfilling life. Don't settle for "almost there"—achieve your career goals while thriving in all aspects of your life.

Self-care Tips and Things to Do in Chicago 

Chicago’s reputation calls to mind a myriad of things, but for us, we often return to the words resilience and grit. But the same drive behind those words can become a double-edged sword. The city's constant energy can leave us feeling depleted, and the pressure to "have it all" can take a toll on our mental health.

But how do you take care of yourself? When the city is busy, and life is busier, you might find yourself at odds with how to fit in the cityscape you love with the life you’re building. Whether it’s mom guilt or work woes that are weighing you down, we’ve made a list of places that might help you mix up your adventure game and embrace a little Chicago-style self-care.

1. Lakefront Therapy: Take advantage of the stunning lakefront by incorporating lakeside walks or runs into your routine. The calming effect of water coupled with physical activity can do wonders for your mental health.
2. ‍Connect with Your Crew: Diverse social offerings means there’s something for everyone. Find groups focused on your interests, whether it's a book club, a running group, or a volunteer organization. Building a support network can provide invaluable shoulders to lean on, plus a sense of belonging.‍
3. Jazz Nights: Chicago is renowned for its vibrant jazz scene. Treat yourself to a night out at one of the city's jazz clubs for some soulful music therapy. Let the rhythm soothe your soul and transport you to a place of relaxation.‍
4. Schedule Self-Care (and Stick to it!): Block out time in your calendar for activities that nourish your soul. Whether it's a deep-tissue massage, a quiet evening reading a book, or a solo art museum visit, prioritize what makes you feel good.‍
5. Art Therapy at the Museums: With world-class museums like the Art Institute and the Museum of Contemporary Art on your doorstep, exploring creativity awaits. Lose yourself in art therapy as you explore the galleries on a solo date, or with your loved ones. Art has an incredible way of helping us connect to creativity. ‍
6. Community Gardens: Get your hands dirty at one of Chicago's many community gardens. Gardening has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, making it a therapeutic activity for women looking to unwind.‍
7. Seek Professional Help: If nothing you try is working for you, don't hesitate to seek therapy. A therapist can provide a safe space to explore your challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and work towards a healthier, happier you.

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Self-care isn't selfish, it's essential. By prioritizing your well-being, you'll be better equipped to handle the competing demands of life so you can show up as your best self for everything you do.

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Pure Health Center's Tools for Women's Mental Health

Pure Health Center also provides additional tools and resources to help women capture a more balanced life story by bettering their mental health. Some of these resources include:

• Blogs: Pure Health Center’s blog features articles on topics such as self-care, stress management, and finding balance in life.
• Events: We host events and workshops focused on women's mental health, career coaching, and personal development.
• Clinician Expertise: With therapists like Sara Calfee specializing in women's issues, career transitions, and divorce, we also offer tailored support to help women navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength.

Meet Therapist Sara Calfee: Women’s Issues, Career Transitions, Divorce

Sara Calfee, a dedicated therapist at Pure Health Center, specializes in supporting women through various life transitions. Whether you're struggling with women's issues, navigating a career change, or going through a divorce, Sara provides compassionate and personalized care to help you find healing and empowerment. Learn more about Sara and her services at Pure Health Center.

As we celebrate Women's Mental Health Awareness Month, your wellbeing is a priority, and your wellbeing matters. This is true every week and month of the year, but we challenge you to take one step to make it a feature in your life today. Got something in mind? Schedule an appointment in one of Pure Health Center’s diverse Chicago locations, and let us know what it is. We’d love to be your accountability buddy. With the right support and resources, women in Chicago can embrace their inner girl boss, conquer mom guilt, and thrive in every aspect of life.

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