Psychology Month: Celebrating Women in Science and the Science of Wellness
Every February, we celebrate Psychology Month—a time to reflect on the impact of psychology in our everyday lives and highlight advancements in mental health research. We are continuing to celebrate Psychology month in our blog as we wrap up February.
This year’s theme, Women in Science, shines a spotlight on the vital contributions women have made to psychology and the broader scientific community. Despite historical barriers, women in psychology have been at the forefront of research, clinical practice, and advocacy, shaping the way we understand human behaviour and mental well-being.
The Role of Women in Psychology
Women have played an integral role in the evolution of psychology. Some of the most influential figures include:
Dr. Mary Whiton Calkins (1863–1930): The first woman to serve as president of the American Psychological Association (APA), Calkins made significant contributions to the study of memory and the self.
Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark (1917–1983): A pioneering Black psychologist whose research on racial identity and self-perception in children played a key role in the Brown v. Board of Education decision.
Dr. Francine Shapiro (1948–2019): The founder of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a breakthrough treatment for trauma and PTSD that has been widely validated by empirical research.
Dr. Marsha Linehan (b. 1943): A psychologist and creator of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), which has transformed the treatment of borderline personality disorder and emotional dysregulation.
Despite their groundbreaking contributions, women in psychology have often faced gender disparities in research funding, leadership positions, and recognition. However, their work has shaped fields such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma research, and neuropsychology, providing empirically supported interventions that benefit millions today.
Dr. Francine Shapiro (1948–2019): The founder of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a breakthrough treatment for trauma and PTSD that has been widely validated by empirical research.
Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
Significant strides have been made toward reducing stigma surrounding mental health, yet challenges remain. Increased awareness, advocacy, and improved accessibility to mental health services have helped shift societal perceptions.
In Canada, mental health statistics highlight the importance of continued progress:
Anxiety Disorders: Affect nearly 5% of the population at any given time, with higher prevalence among women (Statistics Canada, 2022).
Depression: Roughly 1 in 8 Canadians will experience major depression in their lifetime (CAMH, 2023).
Burnout: Rising rates have been reported, especially in healthcare, with over 50% of physicians and 40% of nurses experiencing severe burnout (CMA, 2022).
Trauma & PTSD: 9.2% of Canadians will develop PTSD in their lifetime, with women at higher risk (Mental Health Commission of Canada, 2021).
Therapeutic interventions such as EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches have been instrumental in improving mental health outcomes. Continued advocacy and research ensure that mental health care remains both accessible and evidence-based.
The Interconnection of Physical and Mental Health
Mental and physical health are deeply intertwined, with research consistently showing how one impacts the other. Chronic pain, hormonal imbalances, sleep disorders, and gut health all play a role in psychological well-being.
Inflammation & Mental Health: Chronic inflammation has been linked to depression and anxiety (Miller & Raison, 2016). Proper nutrition and lifestyle modifications can help regulate inflammation levels.
Sleep & Cognitive Function: Poor sleep is a significant contributor to anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. Sleep hygiene and relaxation techniques are crucial for mental resilience.
Exercise & Mood Regulation: Regular physical activity is shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by increasing endorphins and neuroplasticity (Schuch et al., 2018).
The Science Behind Holistic Wellness
At Latitude, we recognize that psychological well-being is deeply interconnected with physical health. Here’s what the science says about some key holistic therapies:
Acupuncture: Research suggests acupuncture can help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and alleviate chronic pain (Vickers et al., 2018). Studies also indicate potential benefits for anxiety and depression (Armour et al., 2019). Explore Acupuncture
Chiropractic Care: While often associated with spinal adjustments, chiropractic care has been linked to pain reduction and improved mobility. Emerging research suggests potential benefits for stress regulation via the nervous system (Holt et al., 2021). Learn More
Naturopathic Medicine: A blend of traditional and evidence-based practices, naturopathic treatments often emphasize nutrition, herbal medicine, and lifestyle changes. Studies highlight the efficacy of naturopathic approaches for conditions like anxiety and chronic pain (Prousky et al., 2018). Find Out More
Massage Therapy: Empirical research supports massage therapy for reducing cortisol levels, lowering stress, and improving circulation (Field, 2016). It has also been shown to enhance sleep quality and mood. Read More
Reiki: While more research is needed, some studies suggest Reiki may promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and support overall well-being (McManus, 2017). It is increasingly used in hospitals as a complementary therapy. Discover Reiki
Bridging Science and Wellness
As we celebrate Psychology Month and the invaluable contributions of women in science, we also recognize the importance of integrating evidence-based wellness practices into mental health care. Psychology has long been rooted in scientific inquiry, and its intersection with holistic health continues to expand as research validates the mind-body connection.
At Latitude, we are committed to providing care that is both clinically supported and holistic. By blending the best of psychological research with integrative wellness practices, we strive to create a comprehensive approach to mental and physical well-being.
This February, let’s celebrate the contributions of women in psychology and continue to explore the science that helps us heal—mind, body, and spirit.