Self-esteem tops the charts of women’s health issues

Maya Torralba, founder and director of the Anadarko Community Esteem Project. Image courtesy: Maya Torralba

Correspondent Lorraine Jessepe – Indian Country Today – 21 Jan, 2008

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Ask Dr. Dee Ann DeRoin what the most pressing health issue is among Native women and you may be a bit surprised by her response. It isn’t heart disease, substance abuse or even diabetes.

“The single greatest issue is self-esteem,” DeRoin said. “People need to love themselves so they can transfer that love.”

DeRoin said poor self-esteem manifests in the lives of young Native women in many ways, including depression, substance abuse, unplanned pregnancy and STDs. . .

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