Women and mental health symposium

Abstract

This symposium will delve into critical topics addressing gender-specific mental health challenges. The first speaker will discuss updated MHRA guidelines for prescribing sodium valproate, a widely used medication for epilepsy and bipolar disorder. Historically, risks associated with valproate have focused on women of childbearing age, with 11% of babies exposed in utero developing birth defects and 30–40% facing developmental issues. Emerging data now indicate a potential risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children conceived by men on valproate up to three months before conception, raising questions about its future prescription for men. The Indian perspective on this issue will also be explored. The second speaker will highlight SHAPER’s “Breathe Melodies for Mums” initiative, a Wellcome-funded £2.6 million research programme investigating group singing as an intervention for postnatal depression. Findings from this randomized control trial will provide insights into how arts-based social interventions can address mild to moderate postnatal depression. The third speaker will focus on ADHD in young girls, a condition often overlooked due to its atypical presentation, leading to challenges in self-esteem, development, and long-term mental health as women. Early recognition and intervention will be emphasized. The fourth speaker will share her leadership journey as a woman of Indian origin forging a successful career in the UK, mentoring international graduates, and contributing to psychiatry. The symposium promises to offer enriching discussions on these timely issues.