Mayaa SH : The Crusader Against Domestic Violence ...

Women Empowerment Culturist,Essayist ,Thinker , Social and Legal Activist on advisories on family law in India, Gender Based Violence Specialist,Evolutionary Developmental Feminist, Social Activist and Campaigner for Women's Rights, Multiple State, National Award Winner and Internationally acclaimed Multiple World Record Holder, Renowned name in Contemporary Literature Authoress Mayaa SH speaks on numerous aspects related to Women's Rights, Domestic Violence,Gender Roles and Mental Health etc. in a candid interview...

How do you define women empowerment?Which according to you  requires more attention ?

Mayaa SH: Women's empowerment is looked as a multifaceted process encompassing education, economic independence, health rights, political participation, and challenging societal norms . This approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of these elements to create an environment where women can thrive as equals in society .Women in India have been given many legal rights over the years to promote gender equality and protect their interests. Despite achievements, women in India still face significant challenges. Gender discrimination, violence against women and unequal pay remain major issues. Female feticide and infanticide, especially in rural areas, remain a significant concern. Women's safety and security is also an important issue, with many incidents of sexual harassment and assault being reported every year. Legal rights for women in India also needs a thorough revision with respect to family law and human rights .Rights against domestic violence needs to be more stricter in implementation. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, provides legal protection to women from physical, emotional and verbal abuse by their husbands or relatives. Overall, while women in India have made great progress in terms of legal rights, there is still much work to be done to ensure full gender equality and protection from discrimination and violence.Mayaa SH advocates for women's active participation in decision-making at every level . When women are empowered to lead, they increase productivity, enhance collaboration, inspire organizational dedication, and improve fairness . She emphasizes the need for mentors, allies, and sponsors for women to be on par with men as workplace leaders.Empowered women leaders emulate growth, facilitate teamwork, provide autonomy, and lead to better decision-making, building trust and promoting continuous gender diversity within organizations .

What must be done to improve the status of women ?

Mayaa SH: To improve the status of women globally, a multifaceted approach is required, addressing legal, social, economic, and political barriers. This involves dismantling systemic discrimination, ensuring equal opportunities, and actively promoting women's participation and leadership in all spheres of life .Addressing Legal and Policy Gaps is a must .Significant progress has been made in establishing legal frameworks for gender equality, with 99 positive legal reforms implemented between 2019 and 2024 to remove discriminatory laws . However, legal barriers persist in many countries. For instance, as of 2024, 61 out of 131 surveyed countries (47%) still restrict women from performing the same jobs as men . Furthermore, 38 countries (29%) set 18 as the minimum marriage age without exceptions, and 63 countries (48%) define rape based on a lack of consent, rather than a broader understanding of sexual autonomy . To improve the status of women, it is crucial to continue advocating for comprehensive policy reforms and enforceable legislation that eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and girls . This includes ensuring equal rights to economic resources, ownership of land and property, financial services, and inheritance . Countries like Sweden and Mexico have adopted "feminist" foreign policies, prioritizing women's rights and representation in foreign and security institutions, which could serve as a model for others .To improve the status of women in India, there is a need for a combined effort from all sectors of the society. The government should continue to implement policies that promote women's health, education, and economic empowerment. There is a need to pay more attention to gender sensitivity and education at all levels of society. The media also have a role in promoting positive messages about women and combating gender stereotypes. Men and women should get equal pay for equal work.Rights against sexual harassment also is considered a taboo to be implemented in reporting any matter .The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 provides a framework for redressal of complaints of sexual harassment at workplace. Besides,Property Rights described in The Hindu Succession Act, 1956 was amended in 2005 to provide equal succession rights to daughters in Hindu families for inheritance claims in the right of their fathers also need a complete revisit with reference to quick and efficient resolutions.By addressing the challenges faced by women in India and promoting gender equality, we can ensure that women can fully participate in all aspects of life and contribute to the development of the country.

How do you define the interconnectedness between gender-based violence and mental health and overall well-being of women in India? What must be ensured to protect the survivors ?

Mayaa SH: Gender-based violence (GBV) significantly impacts the mental health and overall well-being of women in India, leading to a range of psychological distress and psychiatric disorders. This pervasive issue is deeply rooted in societal structures and cultural norms, exacerbating its effects on women's health .The prevalence of GBV in India remains alarmingly high. The National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5; 2019-21) reported that 29.3% of ever-married females aged 18-49 years have experienced spousal violence. Additionally, 3.1% of women faced physical violence during pregnancy, and approximately 24% reported physical or sexual intimate partner violence in the 12 months preceding the survey . These figures, while showing a mild decline from NFHS-4 (31.2%), still indicate that in almost half of the country, more than 25% of women are affected by violence simply because of their gender . Globally, about 30% of women have experienced violence, affecting 736 million women worldwide.35% of women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence. Globally, 7% of women have been sexually assaulted by someone other than a partner. Gender-based violence is that it knows no social or economic boundaries and affects women and girls of all socio-economic backgrounds. Discriminatoryn social, cultural or religious laws, norms and practices that marginalize women and girls and fail to respect their rights. Gender stereotypes are often used to justify violence against women.The risk of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use concerns, or becoming suicidal was three to five times higher for women who have experienced violence. The psychological trauma of Gender Based Violence leaves lasting scars, and survivors may struggle with depression and are at higher risk for suicide.Services for survivors are essential services. This means that shelters, helplines, counselling, and all support for survivors of gender-based violence need to be available for those in need. Educating on the definition of consent .Phrases like “she was asking for it” or “boys will be boys” attempt to blur the lines around sexual consent, placing blame on victims, and excusing perpetrators from the crimes they have committed. There are many forms of abuse and all of them can have serious physical and emotional effects. Training programmes for professionals,Rehabilitation programmes for perpetrators, Campaigns to raise awareness,Promoting women's empowerment, Involving men and boys, Education in promotion of non-violence and equality between women and men and challenging gender stereotypes are some of the ways that can enable massive support to generate awareness and enabling the survivors to cope with the past trauma inflicted upon them and lead to live a long and healthy life with dignity  .

What according to you are the mental health consequences of Gender Based Violence (GBV) ?

Mental Health Consequences :

The mental health impacts of GBV on women are often overlooked, with a primary focus typically placed on physical injuries . However, research consistently demonstrates a strong correlation between experiencing violence and various mental health issues:

(1) Depression and Anxiety:

Women who experience domestic violence are at a significantly higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms . Unipolar depression is twice as common in women, and the lifetime risk of anxiety disorders is 2-3 times higher for females . Studies in India confirm that common mental disorders (CMDs) like depression and anxiety are strongly associated with the female gender and poverty, with women being 2-3 times more at risk .

(2) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):

Gender-based violence, particularly sexual violence, is a significant risk factor for PTSD.Traumatic experiences can leave long-term emotional and psychological scars, affecting overall well-being .

(3) Suicide and Self-Harm:

Violence against women is strongly associated with suicide attempts. In India, unlike many other countries, women outnumber men in completed suicides, although the gap is narrow . Studies indicate that girls from nuclear families and women married at a very young age are at a higher risk for attempted suicide and self-harm . Spousal violence is an independent risk factor for attempted suicide in women .

(4) Neuropsychological Sequelae:

Female victims of exploitation can suffer serious neuropsychological consequences, including problems with attention and memory, which affect their daily lives .Abused women perform worse in tasks involving alternating attention, short-term memory, and visual memory compared to non-abused women.

(5) Other Psychological Symptoms:

Common psychological symptoms due to GBV include low self-esteem, emotional lability, hypoactive sexual desire, ongoing fatigue, and insomnia . Psychological abuse has been established as a significant risk factor for mild and major depressive illnesses in women and can even cause preterm delivery if a pregnant female is exposed to domestic violence.

Contributing Factors and Societal Context :

Several factors contribute to the high prevalence and severe impact of GBV on women's mental health in India:

(6) Patriarchy and Structural Racism:

These are general reasons for GBV against women . The feeling of superiority and the intention to assert it in various social spheres underpin much of the violence.

(A) Cultural Norms and Gender Roles:

Traditional, rigid, and misogynistic views on gender norms increase the likelihood of violence toward women . In India, women are often instilled with the mindset that their real life begins after marriage and are considered "Paraya Dhan" (someone else's property). The gender dynamic is paradoxical, with women being respected but also expected to bear more responsibilities .

(B) Economic Dependence and Low :

Education: Low levels of education and economic dependence in females are reported causes of domestic violence . Economic abuse, where perpetrators control access to resources, can lead to feelings of helplessness and is associated with depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation .

(C) Lack of Autonomy:

Women's low autonomy in decision-making and low levels of support from their families are significant risk factors for common mental disorders .

(D) Stigma and Underutilization of Services:

When a woman becomes mentally ill, services are sought infrequently and late due to the greater stigma attached to women's mental illness . The mentally ill woman may be socially ostracized and abandoned . Hospital settings also appear to cater primarily to men, with sex-based discrimination in the availability of beds.Implementing institutional interventions and public policies that promote safe, inclusive, and violence-free academic and societal environments is vital .By addressing these multifaceted issues, India can work towards improving the mental health and overall well-being of its women, moving beyond merely focusing on physical injuries to encompass the profound psychological toll of gender-based violence.

How will you look at the accessibility and quality of mental health services for women in India and any particular improvements you would suggest?

Mayaa SH: The accessibility and quality of mental health services for women in India present a complex and multifaceted challenge, characterized by significant disparities and systemic barriers. While there have been some improvements and increased awareness in recent years, the overall landscape remains largely inadequate, particularly for women in rural areas and those from marginalized communities. Key issues include a severe shortage of trained mental health professionals, especially female practitioners, a lack of awareness and pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues, and financial constraints that limit access to care. Cultural norms often place women's mental health concerns lower on the priority list, and societal expectations can exacerbate stress and mental health conditions. The quality of available services can also vary widely, with urban centers generally having better resources than rural areas, though even in urban settings, specialized care for women's specific mental health needs (e.g., perinatal depression, gender-based violence trauma) is often lacking.Women are less likely to avail mental health services compared to men. Women tend to rely on the opinions of the outside world for their self-esteem much more than men do. As a result, they often avoid having their mental illness treated because they want to prevent others from thinking less of them, which would cause them to think less of themselves. Moreover, certain mental illnesses such as post-partum depression found amongst pregnant women are often not part of the discourse of mental health in India. This creates a ‘treatment gap’ between men and women that is not remedied by law or policy for mental health in India. According to a report presented by the Standing Committee in Parliament in August, India has only 0.75 psychiatrists per lakh people. This is a much lower number than that required to address the growing mental health problems in the population. Reducing Stigma, Preventing and Acting Early, Closing Treatment Gaps and Improving Access,Strengthening.Crisis Response, Establishing Community Wellness Hubs, Aligning Partners, Policies and Programs are some of the ways to look at substantial ways to improve quality and accessibility of the advantage of services to be availed for mental health .Invest in research to understand the prevalence, risk factors, and effective interventions for mental health conditions among women in India, disaggregated by region, socioeconomic status, and other relevant factors.By implementing these comprehensive improvements, India can significantly enhance the accessibility and quality of mental health services for its women, leading to better health outcomes and overall societal well-being.

How do you look at the social construct of the societal expectations and gender roles on women's mental health in India? How can a more inclusive and supportive environment be encouraged ?

Mayaa SH: The social construct of societal expectations and gender roles significantly impacts women's mental health in India, contributing to a higher prevalence of certain mental health disorders and creating barriers to seeking help .These factors are deeply embedded in the cultural milieu and influence women's lives from various angles, including family dynamics, economic independence, and access to resources .Women in India often face immense pressure to conform to traditional gender roles, which dictate that they should be obedient to their families, marry, and have children .Failure to meet these expectations can lead to social isolation and shame, contributing to mental health disorders . This pressure is rooted in a patriarchal family system where women often have little say . Historically, gender roles have been culturally prescribed, with women traditionally involved in domestic tasks and childcare, even when economic necessity compels them to seek employment outside the home .However, these external jobs are often lower paying than those available to men, leading to exploitation and not significantly changing their social position or relieving them of domestic duties.Reproductive, Productive and Community Managing Role are traditionally three Gender Roles for women. Apparently, women are seen as caregivers, nurturers, homemakers, and helpers. Men's gender roles revolve around characteristics such as dominance, assertiveness, and strength. Traditionally, men's gender roles include breadwinner, leader, and protector. Yet, arguably the biggest problem with gender roles comes in the form of gender-based violence. Attacks on women can be motivated by sexual or ideological reasoning’s, but many of them stem from hurtful gender roles and stereotypes. Gender roles are based in an understanding of femininity and masculinity. Women's gender roles revolve around characteristics such as helpfulness, passivity, and kindness. Traditionally, women are seen as caregivers, nurturers, homemakers, and helpers. Being a modern woman is definitely a double-edged sword and has many complexities. Feminism has taught us, that as women we are equal to men and we must demand and fight for that equality, while the influence of gender roles makes us demand chivalry from men. Gender inclusion is a concept that transcends mere equality. It's the notion that all services, opportunities, and establishments are open to all people and that male and female stereotypes do not define societal roles and expectations. Gender equality prevents violence against women and girls. It's essential for economic prosperity. Societies that value women and men as equal are safer and healthier. Gender equality is a human right.Gender is a critical determinant of mental health and mental illness, with patterns of psychological distress and psychiatric disorders differing between women and men . Women tend to exhibit higher levels of internalizing disorders like depression and anxiety, while men show higher levels of externalizing disorders . Studies indicate that women in India are twice as likely as men to suffer from depression. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression accounts for close to 41.9% of disability from neuropsychiatric disorders among women, compared to 29.3% among men. Unipolar depression is predicted to be the second leading cause of global disability by 2020 and is twice as common in women . The lifetime risk of anxiety disorders is also 2-3 times higher in females.

About The Author Mayaa SH

Mayaa SH, a prominent literary figure and advocate, views women's empowerment through several key lenses, emphasizing both individual growth and societal transformation.

Mayaa SH champions the transformative power of dreams for women, seeing them as crucial for empowerment and self-belief . She believes that dreams act as catalysts for change, enabling women to break free from traditional roles and societal limitations . By envisioning a future where their aspirations are realized, women are motivated to take actionable steps, which not only enhances their self-worth but also contributes to broader societal progress. Dreams foster self-belief, which is essential for overcoming obstacles and achieving success . This self-belief, in turn, inspires other women to recognize their own worth and capabilities.Mayaa SH is a prominent Indian poetess, memoirist and a known name in Contemporary Literature whose work is known for her open discussion on women’s rights and voices and experience of being an Indian woman. Most of her writings deal with women living in a patriarchal society (male-dominated society). Female sensibilities are deeply spread through her writings along with her extensive work for gender neutrality.Mayaa SH is best known for getting logical congruence for understanding the role of tradition and societal dogma in shaping women’s lives and identities speaks on how she underwent character assassination and the resistance she culminated as the urge to not react. In her words, “It’s natural to want to defend yourself, but this can often make the situation worse. Reacting can give the person who is attacking you the attention they want, and it can also make you look guilty or defensive.”.She is a Multi-National Award Winner , a thirteen times a World Record Holder, An Artist, a Podcaster, a Record Chart Topping International Fastest Anthology Co-Authoress and has been chosen as number 1 The Modern Literary Stars Of India, 2022 by Cherry Book Awards for making valuable contribution to Contemporary Indian Literature. She has Won In Memorable Performance in the category termed as ‘Other than English write ups “ for her appreciation of hard work , creativity and dedication in Grand Christmas Competition 2.0 which has been a world record event of the largest creative event hosted online with more than 1000+participants . Mayaa SH is a Women Empowerment Culturist and a gender equality exponent to position and contextualize her work within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.She has depicted gender inclusivity and equality through her certifications from the United Nations and powerful writings on Feminism, Gender Equality, Transforming Vision Into Action: Transmogrification on Transgender Community and Mental Health Awareness Topics. Her work depicts the identity, economic and social freedom of many .She has co-authored more than hundred and fifty plus anthologies with over fourteen solo books and has been aligned with more than 85 publication houses.She has been featured in several magazines and women oriented like Tejaswi -The Imperishable on Women Power and Honour including few international magazines. Her first poem “The Candle In The Wind” made her win an Award at the National Level. Her powerful Writings on "I Only Speak Titanium" and "Laal Rang Aashiqana" has won her many accolades .She navigates many women through stress by deploying talking as a medium to combat stress and fear.In the words of Mayaa “Someone has said that courage is not the absence of fear, it is a decision made by you that there is something else, which is more important than your fear. Don’t let your doubts, fears and failures overwhelm you. Don’t be afraid to act. make plans. Change is not possible without taking steps. Understand your interests, values, thoughts and dreams. Don’t be afraid of mistakes. Learn to be calm if you don’t understand something, take someone’s advice. Listen to others too. Instead of sadness and anger, choose the path that leads to empathy and compassion. Don’t compare with others. Winston S. Churchill says, “No victory is final and defeat is not the end.” Courage is the continuation of this sequence.”