The Cost-of-Living Crisis: How Young Women are Being Impacted
'The cost of living is getting more and more expensive in every household,' says operations manager Shane Wallace, and a Deakin University study focusing on young women's experiences in Australia confirms this. The study, published in Health Promotion International, found that many young women are skipping meals and forgoing medical attention to save money. This is a concerning trend, as it highlights the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on the health and well-being of young women.
Ruby Neisler, a 23-year-old from Logan, south of Brisbane, is one such woman. She relies on discount supermarkets to afford basic necessities, such as food and laundry supplies. 'I can afford to have a decent meal here, and I'm not skimping on different ingredients,' she says. 'And the laundry stuff - I can afford that as well, all in one shop without it hurting.'
The Deakin University study found that many young women are making similar trade-offs to get by. Dr. Simone McCarthy, the study's author, says, 'We found that the cost-of-living crisis has intensified financial pressures and health inequalities across a lot of populations, but women are disproportionately impacted.'
The study surveyed 570 Australian women aged 18 to 40 years old, and the results were striking. Nearly half of the respondents held a bachelor's degree or a postgraduate qualification, and 42.8% were employed full-time. However, almost 40% had dependent children, and many were making difficult choices to save money.
Delaying health care is a common practice for young women like Ruby Neisler. 'It's a little embarrassing, but I went to the dentist for the first time in over a year the other day. I was so scared of the cost,' she says. 'Me and my friends, we'll try and fix our own issues. Whereas 10 years ago, we'd have gone to a professional for it.'
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) is concerned about the potential consequences of delaying medical care. Dr. Nick Yim, the AMA Queensland President, says that screenings such as mammograms and cervical screenings are often delayed, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and complications down the road. 'That could include, unfortunately, increased pain, increased disability, or some catastrophic and tragic events - like death,' he says.
The Deakin University study highlights the need for support and resources to help young women cope with the cost-of-living crisis. It is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach, and it is crucial to address the systemic inequalities that disproportionately impact women. By doing so, we can work towards a more equitable and just society for all.
