
2015 was the year the world finally started to get serious about the wage gap. From J. Law’s on-point Lenny Letter essay to companies stepping up to raise awareness to those pointing out that there are even gaps among women, the wage gap became less of a women’s issue and more of everyone’s problem. And now there may be one more reason to speed up the process of closing the gap: A new study says that women’s higher diagnoses of mental illness could be explained by the wage gap.
Researchers from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health measured the levels of anxiety and depression in women and men who had the same skill and education levels, but had one very important difference: The women made less money than their male counterparts. The results? Exactly what you’d expect — women who made less had higher odds of being diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder or having a major depressive episode.
It makes sense, unfortunately. What exactly are women supposed to think when we’ve got all the same qualities as men but are literally valued less?!
“If women internalize these negative experiences as reflective of inferior merit, rather than the result of discrimination, they may be at increased risk for depression and anxiety disorders,” says Jonathan Platt, one of the study’s authors, in a news release.
The researchers suggest some serious structural changes — paid parental leave, affordable childcare and flexible work schedules — to make work life a little less stressful until the world can finally get its stuff together and pay women and men equally.
And while this news is super disheartening and discouraging, we’re choosing to look at it this way: If governments and corporations learn that the wage gap is becoming an actual public health issue, maybe things will start to change.
Have you experienced the wage gap first-hand? Tweet us your thoughts @BritandCo.
(Photos via Sean Gallup/Getty + Ilia Yefimovich/Getty)
Our undergarments might have taken a backseat in 2020, but with a new year upon us, we're feeling inspired to reprioritize our most intimate clothing layer — especially in time for Valentine's Day. Because hey, what better way to kickstart a season of self-love than by treating yourself to a confidence-boosting set of lingerie?
We turned to trusted intimates brand Adore Me to set us straight on trends for the year ahead, featuring size-inclusive bodysuits, romantic bustiers, lacy babydoll styles, and everything in between. Luxe sets start at $24.95 with free shipping and exchanges, and if you're not sure what style would work best for you, Adore Me has an at-home styling service called the Elite Box. You can try everything on from the comfort and safety of your home, keep what you love, and send back the rest totally hassle-free. Need more to pique your interest? Scroll ahead to see the silky lingerie and loungewear pieces we're adding to our cart.
Adore Me Svana Contour Set ($24.95): You can't go wrong with this playful satin cherry print and lace design.
Adore Me Luana Camisole & Short Set ($24.95): It was about time for a PJ upgrade, and this silky set is perfect for sweet dreamin' and lounging around the house.
Adore Me Gynger Unlined Set ($24.95): Va-va-voom! Hands-down the sexiest piece in the collection, this bra boasts a fiery red bow and skin-showing cups — literally confidence in a bra!
Adore Me Evetta Unlined Set ($24.95): This barely-there flouncy lace set is for when you'd almost rather wear nothing at all.
Adore Me Desirae Robe ($24.95): Take your self-care to the next level with this so-soft robe with subtle lace detailing.
Adore Me Clarisse Unlined Bodysuit ($24.95): This floral lace bodysuit with adjustable attached garters is straight out of our lingerie fantasy.
Adore Me Charlize Unlined Set ($24.95): If plum is more your power color, you'll love this sheer lace set.
Adore Me Helene Cheeky Plus (5 for $20): Our underwear drawer needs a little TLC too, and these comfy undies with coverage are the answer.
Adore Me Kaia Contour Plus Set ($24.95): Cutouts are all the rage, so why not have them in your underwear too?
Adore Me Kaia Contour Set ($24.95): Oh, and it comes in fire engine red — yes, please!
Adore Me Clarisse Bodysuit ($24.95): If you weren't sure about bodysuits, let this classic style change your mind.
Adore Me Corina Push Up Bustier ($24.95): Like more volume in the cleavage area? This sexy corset situation is for you.