By Ginger Petersen

Women often experience problems that are generally exclusive to their gender.  Hardly an exhaustive list, but many of the issues faced by women in America today include domestic violence, early childhood trauma from sexual molestation, isolation, and gender inequality.  According to the U. S. Justice Department, 1 in 3 girls are molested before the age of 18.  The number of victims of childhood sexual molestation and sexual abuse grows each year, and the psychological effects can be lasting.  The Bureau of Justice Statistics Crime Data Brief also reports that 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime.   Although men can also experience many of these issues, and sadly become victims of many of these atrocities, women, by far, are more often the victims of these forms of abuse.
Another problem often experienced by women is the use of food to reduce their stress, and manage their emotions.  Binge eating behavior is an equal opportunity illness affecting the same number of men as women, but a support group for women would provide a place of comfort that would allow them to bond with other women who may be battling some of the same problems with food.
As a professional with particular interest, and study in these areas, I am excited to begin a women’s support group to provide professional help to those who may be suffering from psychological symptoms Where they can interact with women in similar situations.  The research shows that those who participate in support groups can improve self-esteem, produce a sense of belonging, and reduce stress.
We encourage you to attend our first meeting on June 7, 2011, at 6:00 P.M.  The meetings will be held at Overton Psychological Services at 145 S. Moapa Valley Blvd every Tuesday evening. The cost per meeting will be $3.  Looking forward to seeing you there.