7 Domains of Women's Health

The spiritual aspect of stress often comes to the forefront during times of uncertainty or crisis. In these moments, questions of meaning, faith, and resilience can weigh heavily on individuals and families. Spiritual stress does not just affect the mind—it can deeply impact the body and soul, especially in hospital or medical settings where the stakes are high. Rev. David Wolfer, BCC, joins this episode on the spiritual domain of stress to explore how spirituality intersects with stress in health care environments. The conversation explores the importance of finding meaning during difficult times, how faith and connection to something greater than ourselves can provide solace, and the role of spiritual care in fostering hope and emotional strength.

Environmental stress is a two-way street: we stress the environment, and the environment stresses us. Factors such as air pollution, water quality, and climate change can significantly affect our physical and mental health, contributing to chronic stress and severe illnesses. For those already facing health challenges, these environmental stressors can further impact recovery and overall well-being. Ann Deneris joins the conversation to share her personal story of how environmental factors play a key role in her fight against lung cancer. The discussion explores the complex relationship between humans and the environment, the effects of environmental stressors, and practical strategies to mitigate their harmful impact.

Financial stress is a significant and widespread issue, with profound implications for individuals and families. In the United States, nearly 4 in 10 Americans cannot cover an unexpected $400 expense without going into debt, and 1 in 5 have no emergency savings. For women, the financial picture is often even more precarious, with median savings of just $500 compared to $1,000 for men. Loans, credit card debt, and rising expenses are major contributors to this growing burden, particularly for younger generations navigating a volatile financial landscape. In the financial domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, discuss the pervasive nature of financial stress and its impact on individuals, couples, and families. They explore the unique challenges women face in achieving financial stability, how debt can spiral out of control, and share practical advice for breaking free from financial stress and avoiding future pitfalls.

Pursuing education can be both a source of stress and a pathway to reduced stress in the long run. While the demands of earning a degree—especially an advanced one—can often lead to stress and burnout, individuals with higher education typically experience less stress over time due to greater financial stability. However, intellectual stress is not limited to education; it also includes recognizing stressors unique to each person's mental and cognitive challenges. In the intellectual domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore how education impacts stress levels, the distinct intellectual stressors faced by women and men, and how overthinking stress can worsen its effect. They also discuss how to differentiate between stressors we can and cannot control and share strategies—both positive and negative—for managing intellectual stress and fostering a healthier mindset.

Stress is not just a personal experience—it is deeply influenced by our social environments and roles. From the circumstances we are born into to the ones we actively choose, social stressors shape how we navigate the world. Social media and news media further amplify these pressures, often fueling stress with a constant stream of information and societal comparisons. In the social domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore the complex relationship between social structures and stress. They discuss the collective stress faced by communities and how these shared challenges intersect with personal stress. By understanding these dynamics, we can better navigate and address the social factors that impact our well-being.

Many of us have experienced being "stressed out," but what does that really mean, and how does it impact our emotional well-being? Stress can be immediate—a response to a single challenging event—or it can be chronic, lingering over time and leading to deeper issues like anxiety and even depression. The line between stress and anxiety is often thin, with chronic stress intensifying emotional strain. When left unaddressed, this emotional burden can impact physical health, leading to symptoms like sleeplessness, overeating, or loss of appetite. In the emotional domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, explore the link between emotional health and stress, offering strategies to manage stressors within our control and develop healthier responses to support overall well-being.

Stress is a natural response in our bodies, but when experienced chronically, it can take a serious toll on physical health. When faced with a stressor—whether it is a challenging work situation or a sudden loud noise—our bodies release hormones that heighten alertness and prepare us for action. However, chronic stress can lead to health concerns such as headaches, muscle tension, high blood pressure, heart disease, digestive issues, and insomnia, significantly impacting well-being. In the physical domain of stress, Kirtly Jones, MD, and Katie Ward, DNP, discuss the body's instinctual response to stressors and how we are wired to react. They share practical strategies to manage both external stressors and our internal responses to maintain a healthy mind and body.

Cultures and individuals alike often develop deep spiritual connections to certain items throughout their lives. Across various societies, these spiritual attachments to material objects reflect beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife. Yet, when we pass away, it is often said that none of the physical possessions we have accumulated can come with us. Whether it's a cherished family heirloom or items symbolizing a connection to the afterlife, these objects can carry significant meaning. Cultural anthropologist Polly Wiessner joins the spiritual domain of stuff to discuss what we leave behind versus what we take with us spiritually.

On average, people move over 11 times in their lives, accumulating possessions and leaving many behind with each move. The things we bring into our homes can shape the atmosphere and function of our living spaces, but too much "stuff" can lead to clutter, detracting from the comfort and meaning we seek in our home environments. The balance between what we keep and discard plays a key role in defining what makes a house feel like home. In the environmental domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones and her brother, Steven Parker, reflect on their frequent moves—together as a family, and individually—and the items they've accumulated along the way. They explore how our possessions impact our home environment, from deciding what belongings create a sense of comfort to knowing when it's time to let go of items that no longer serve a purpose.

The average American household contains over 300,000 items, many of which are unused or unnecessary. This accumulation of "stuff" not only leads to physical clutter but can also have financial consequences. From spending money on items we don't need to paying for storage, the cost of keeping excess belongings can quickly add up. Julie Hegeman, a professional organizer and owner of A Cleaner Space in San Diego, joins Dr. Kirtly Jones to explore the financial domain of stuff. They discuss how clutter can keep you from fully living your life and how working with a professional organizer can be a valuable investment. Julie shares insights into the decluttering process and explains how letting go of unnecessary possessions can free up both physical space and mental energy, ultimately saving you money and adding value to your life.

The average person is exposed to an overwhelming amount of information daily—from news updates and social media feeds to work emails and personal texts. Research suggests we encounter roughly 34 gigabytes of data every day, far more than our brains can comfortably process. This constant influx can make it difficult to retain the information we want to remember while simultaneously struggling to forget what we'd rather not. In the intellectual domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones talks about the impact of our information-rich environment on cognitive health and overall well-being. She explores how our brains filter and store knowledge, the psychological burden of information overload, and strategies for retaining what's meaningful while letting go of the rest.

Humans began as nomadic wanderers, carrying only what was essential for survival. Over time, as societies developed, so did the accumulation of possessions, with “stuff” becoming a significant part of our social lives and identities. The objects we surround ourselves with often carry social and cultural meaning, reflecting our status, beliefs, and values. In the social domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones speaks with cultural anthropologist Polly Wiessner to explore the social and anthropological perspectives on "stuff." They discuss how and when humans transitioned from being nomadic to collecting possessions, what this shift reveals about our human behavior, community, and culture, and the complex relationships we have with material goods and how they shape—and are shaped by—social dynamics.

Emotional attachments to possessions can be deeply ingrained, sometimes leading to behaviors like hoarding, which affects approximately 2-6% of the population and is recognized as a mental disorder. Hoarding can impact an individual's quality of life, resulting in cluttered living spaces, strained relationships, and increased stress and anxiety. In a heartfelt conversation, Ivy Bauers, a self-identified hoarder, candidly shares her personal experiences and struggles with accumulating possessions. She offers insight into how her attachment to "stuff" has affected various aspects of her life, including relationships and daily functioning. Dr. Kirtly Jones also speaks with Dr. Tyler Durns, a forensic and clinical psychiatrist, about the psychological underpinnings of hoarding. They explore how and why some people develop intense emotional connections to their belongings, what differentiates hoarding from ordinary collecting, and the mental and emotional challenges associated with the disorder.

Many of us are surrounded by more possessions than we truly need. Research shows the average household contains thousands of items, many of which go unused, contributing to our physical and mental clutter. This overabundance of "stuff" can complicate our lives and blur the line between our needs and wants. In the physical domain of stuff, Dr. Kirtly Jones explores how the accumulation of material goods relates to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. The episode focuses on distinguishing between genuine needs and mere wants, and how simplifying our lives can often lead to greater fulfillment and well-being.

Spirituality can encompass a range of meanings, from religious practices to broader anthropological connections. For many women entering midlife, this phase is a time of reflection and forward-thinking, bridging the past and the future. Spiritual practices that connect us to ourselves and each other become particularly significant during this stage. Midlife is a unique period where one can appreciate the journey of younger generations while also looking ahead. Dr. Kirtly Jones and Katie Ward explore what spirituality means for women in midlife, the different forms it can take, and its impact on well-being.

Eight out of ten menopausal women work outside the home, so it is important to create environments that support midlife transitions both at home and in the workplace. Additionally, poor air quality can accelerate cognitive decline, highlighting the need for healthier surroundings as we age. Dr. Kirtly Jones and Katie Ward, discuss the necessary environmental changes and adaptations for creating menopause/midlife-friendly spaces. From optimizing home settings to designing supportive workspaces, these adjustments can significantly impact well-being during this phase of life. They share practical strategies for enhancing environmental conditions to support women through menopause and midlife.

Financial security becomes increasingly important as we approach midlife and beyond. Historically, the concept of retirement is relatively new, with previous generations of women transitioning from motherhood to grandmotherhood and relying on their children for care in later years. Today, many women work outside the home, making financial planning for the future a common concern. Dr. Kirtly Jones and Katie Ward, DNP, WHNP, explore the financial domain of midlife, offering advice and resources for managing money in later years and preparing for retirement. They discuss the importance of planning for financial security and stability, whether single or with a life partner, to ensure a comfortable and secure future.

Midlife often ushers in a complex era of intellectual reawakening, offering opportunities for profound cognitive development alongside potential hurdles. Dr. Kirtly Parker Jones and Katie Ward, DNP, WHNP explore the intellectual dimensions of this pivotal life stage. Discover how cognitive capacities are reshaped during midlife, from enhancing problem-solving skills and creativity to navigating the challenges of memory and focus that may arise. Learn about effective strategies to harness and optimize intellectual growth as we mature, ensuring a richer, more fulfilling midlife experience.

Midlife often marks a period of significant social evolution, which can either open doors to new freedoms or present unexpected challenges. Dr. Kirtly Parker Jones and Katie Ward, DNP, WHNP dive into the the social aspects of the midlife years. Learn how personal relationships may evolve as we age, touching on everything from changing dynamics in long-term partnerships to the excitement and uncertainties of re-entering the dating scene.

Midlife can be a time of significant emotional transition and upheaval, especially for women undergoing menopause. Women's midlife specialist Katie Ward, DNP, WHNP joins Dr. Kirtly Parker Jones to explore how hormonal fluctuations can influence emotional well-being. Learn about the historical misconceptions of 'involutional melancholia,' the modern understanding of menopause-related mood changes, and coping mechanisms and therapeutic approaches to help women navigate this complex phase with grace and knowledge.

Midlife is not just a chronological milestone; it's a significant phase of physical and hormonal changes, particularly for women navigating the complexities of menopause. Menopause expert Katie Ward, DNP, WHNP, joins the conversation about the physical domain of Midlife. Exploring what menopause entails beyond just the cessation of periods—highlighting symptoms such as hot flashes, mood fluctuations, and changes in metabolic health. Learn about the nuances of hormonal transitions and their broad impacts on daily living, and insights into managing these changes effectively through both medical and lifestyle interventions.

Grief is a multifaceted experience that can extend beyond the physical realm for some individuals. While many religions and cultures offer beliefs in an afterlife, what exactly comes after our physical existence remains a mystery. Carolyn Swift Jones joins the conversation on the spiritual domain of grief to discuss how individuals may seek ways to connect with loved ones after their spirits have departed their physical bodies. This connection can serve as a source of healing and comfort for emotional well-being during times of loss. Through spirituality, we can find solace and meaning, helping us in navigating the complexities of grief and finding a path toward healing and acceptance. Whether through prayer, meditation, or rituals, spiritual practices can provide a framework for processing grief, offering a sense of continuity and connection that transcends the boundaries of life and death.

Environmental changes can evoke powerful emotions and deeply impact our well-being. Scent cues, often linked to memories, can transport us back to specific moments, triggering unexpected waves of grief. In the environmental domain of grief, Dr. Kirtly Jones explores the intricate relationship between our environment and the grieving process. The episode introduces the concept of solastalgia—a form of grief experienced when witnessing the transformation or deterioration of a beloved place—and the emotional toll of climate grief, highlighting the growing concern over the declining health of our planet and its impact on human well-being.

Grieving can come with unexpected financial costs, from funeral expenses to managing unpaid bills and estate planning. These financial implications add another layer of complexity to an already challenging time. In the financial domain of grief, Dr. Kirtly Jones is joined by producer Chloé Nguyễn to explore this often-overlooked yet significant aspect of the grieving process. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preparing financially for grief, offers guidance for both individuals facing the end of life and those left behind, and provides strategies for navigating the financial challenges that accompany grief.

Grief is not a linear process, but rather a messy and tumultuous experience intertwined with various emotions such as guilt, anger, and relief. Normalizing the chaotic feelings and thoughts that accompany grief adds to our growth as humans. In the intellectual domain of grief, Dr. Kirtly Jones is joined by Kathie Supiano, director of Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program, to explore grief from a clinician's perspective—unlike depression, sorrow and grief are not problems to be solved. The conversation challenges Kübler-Ross's five stages of grief, emphasizing that each grieving journey is unique, with no one "correct" way to grieve. Making sense of loss over time can lead to feelings and thoughts of appreciation, gratitude, and remembrance as we navigate our grieving process.

There is healing in collective grieving. Grief does not have to be an isolated experience, and the support of one's social circle can play a crucial role in navigating the grieving process. Outside of family and close friends, resources such as grief support groups and group therapy can offer valuable avenues for communal healing. Kathie Supiano, director of Caring Connections: A Hope and Comfort in Grief Program—the bereavement care program at University of Utah Health, joins this episode to talk about the social domain of grief and the multifaceted role of social connections during times of loss. The conversation touches on societal norms and stereotypes surrounding grief, cultural and generational differences in grieving practices, as well as gender disparities in how we may approach grief and loss.

Grief is the profound sense of sadness following loss, and grieving is the natural response to navigating that sorrow. We all grieve differently and on our own terms, and understanding how to care for oneself during the grieving process is crucial for healing. But what constitutes a 'normal' grieving process, and when does grieving become depression? In a raw and emotionally charged discussion, guest Jackie Shifrar shares a personal and poignant story of navigating the aftermath of losing a loved one to suicide. The conversation delves into the complex emotional landscape of grief and its profound impact on individuals and families. If you or a loved one are struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Call or text the National Suicide and Crisis Line at 988 to connect with mental health professionals in your area.

"Sick with grief" describes the profound toll of loss on our bodies during the grieving process. Grief is defined as the deep emotional response to loss, and encompasses a spectrum of reactions that extend beyond mere mourning. Alongside its emotional weight, grief also manifests physically, with symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and a weakened immune response. Exploring the physical domain of grief, Dr. Kirtly Jones discusses the interconnection between emotional and physical well-being during times of loss.

While some may liken their morning coffee ritual to a religious experience, the reality is the act of brewing that cup of coffee is often centered around personal gratification rather than spiritual connection. Despite our hopes and expectations of heightened focus and familiarity with the taste and aroma, caffeine's effects may not necessarily transcend into the spiritual realm. So what, if anything, is inherently spiritual about our relationship with caffeine? In the last conversation on caffeine, Dr. Kirtly Jones reflects on the spiritual dimensions of our caffeine habits and the broader cultural and religious contexts surrounding its consumption.

Our carbon footprint is determined by the greenhouse gases generated by our actions. Each cup of coffee or tea we consume adds to this footprint. From cultivation and harvesting, to their transportation to local cafés or grocery stores, energy and resources are expended, contributing to pollution. The accumulation of material waste further amplifies environmental concerns. In the environmental domain of caffeine, Dr. Kirtly Jones talks about the carbon footprint associated with caffeine consumption and offers strategies for reducing our environmental impact.

Coffee is the most common hot caffeine source in the United States and ranks as the world's leading traded agricultural commodity. Statistically, American women outspend men on coffee, with some individuals dedicating upwards of $2,000 annually to their java fix. In the financial domain of our caffeine consumption, Dr. Kirtly Jones discusses the economic impact of our coffee habits and raises the question of whether the enjoyment and benefits of a daily cup of coffee justify its financial expense.

For some people, caffeine can be a reliable source for promoting wakefulness, sharpening attention, and refining motor coordination. However, its effects aren't universally positive, as others may experience jitteriness and anxiety in response to caffeine consumption. Dr. Kirtly Jones talks to Scot Singpiel, host and producer of Who Cares About Men's Health, about the complex relationship between caffeine and cognition, highlighting caffeine's intellectual consequences on different individuals.

Caffeine makes you want to talk. For decades, all over the world, gathering with friends and sharing a cup of coffee or tea—often caffeinated—has been a universal way to bond and socialize. In the social domain of caffeine, Dr. Kirtly Jones is joined by producer Chloé Nguyen to discuss coffee shop meet-ups and tea ceremonies, and why these caffeinated beverages have become synonymous with fostering connections and creating social bonds.

The effects of caffeine are diverse, with some experiencing heightened alertness and an improved sense of focus and well-being, potentially elevating moods. For others, caffeine consumption can result in increased anxiety, irritability, and disturbances in sleep patterns, adversely affecting emotional health. Continuing the conversation on caffeine, Dr. Kirtly Jones spotlights the emotional domain and examines caffeine's impact on our feelings and the intricate interplay with our emotional well-being.

Caffeine—found in coffee, tea, and soda—is consumed by 80% of the global population. Focusing on the physical domain of caffeine, Dr. Kirtly Jones explores its effects on the human body, its function, and the complex relationship between caffeine and our physical well-being. Mitch Sears, host and producer of Who Cares About Men's Health, joins this episode of 7 Domains of Women's Health to share his personal experience with caffeine overdose.

The saying goes, “With age comes wisdom,” and “With time comes experience.” Retiring is one of the fundamental stages of life. While we typically experience our physical prime in our 20s, aging introduces challenges such as joint stiffness, heightened vulnerability to injuries, and slower recovery times, serving as markers as we approach retirement age. Retirement, however, is not a one-dimensional event; there is a distinction between "retiring from" a job or career and "retiring to" a new phase in life. Recognizing the multidimensional aspects of retirement equips us to prepare for this significant life transition. Philosophy professor Margaret "Peggy" Battin joins this episode of 7 Domains of Women's Health to discuss the ethical considerations and complexities associated with retiring and offers insights into navigating this pivotal stage in life.

Our hearts can break, physically. Broken heart syndrome is a genuine ailment that can lead to heart failure and even death. Coronary heart disease stands as the leading cause of death among American women. The risk of coronary heart diseases, such as heart attacks and heart failure, starts to rise as women enter midlife. Dr. Camille Moreno, a midlife women's health expert and the medical director of the Midlife Women's Health and Menopausal Medicine program at University of Utah Health, joins this episode of 7 Domains of Women's Health to discuss how to care for this fist-sized organ that plays a vital role in all aspects of our health.

In the realm of wellness, book clubs stand out as a unique path to holistic health, bypassing conventional methods such as diets and exercise routines. Beyond the joy of reading, book clubs yield profound benefits. Dr. Kirtly Jones explores how immersing oneself in books not only offers emotional comfort but also enhances mental sharpness. Book clubs—a tradition dating back decades and now boasting more than 5 million members in the U.S., 80% being women—have cultivated essential communities. Even in our digital age, book clubs have effortlessly transitioned from cozy living rooms to lively online spaces. In an ever-expanding world, these close-knit communities can provide stability, nurturing a profound sense of belonging.

Feelings of privacy or shame often shroud discussions about vulva health, leading many women to avoid seeking medical care when something seems wrong. Without accurate knowledge, misconceptions about this important but often overlooked aspect of a woman's body can lead to serious health complications. Dr. Camille Moreno, medical director of the Midlife Women's Health and Menopausal Medicine program at University of Utah Health, joins this episode of 7 Domains of Women's Health to talk about the female genital anatomy through the lens of the seven domains of women's health, delving into what the vulva is, its purpose, and how to care for it.

As many as 1 in 4 women will experience bladder-related issues during their lifetime, whether it be an increased frequency or urgency to use the restroom or the leaking of urine. These problems can severely impact a woman's ability to participate in activities without fear of potential embarrassment. Most of these problems are not “just a fact of getting older,” and there are plenty of treatments out there. Urogynecologist Carolyn Swenson, MD, joins this episode of 7 Domains of Women's Health to talk about the most common bladder problems women can face and the treatments available to get them back to living their lives.

Humans are the only species that cry emotional tears, and we don't make them until around two months old—around the same time the "social smile" appears. As humans age, we often keep the emotional tears but leave the crying out loud behind. Some cry more than others. Some don't cry at all. Anthropologist Polly Wiessner, actress-turned-reverend Carolyn Swift Jones, and Scot Singpiel and Mitch Sears—hosts of Who Cares About Men's Health?— join this episode of 7 Domains of Women's Health to talk about why we cry, what it signals to others, and crying's effects and impacts on our health. Listen to Dr. Jones talk with the Who Cares guys about how emotional availability can improve your life on Who Cares About Men's Health.

Anxiety is defined as an anticipation of a future threat. The physical and emotional signs of anxiety are uncomfortable, and it's a natural human response to avoid uncomfortable things. But most of us have been anxious at one time or another. Feeling anxious is a normal part of living, but some women—and men—have anxiety every day. Psychologist and founder of Honest Sleep, Dr. Brian Curtis joins this episode of 7 Domains of Women's Health to talk about diagnosing and managing clinical anxiety.