Women’s Mental Health in the Security Industry
Guest post Both men and women in the security industry face mental health issues. Women make up only 10% of the UK security industry, putting them in a minority. However, women can be more susceptible to challenges due to work stress, discrimination, and harassment. Those who deal with sexist abuse are 3 times more likely to experience depression.
The Working the Doors Women in Security Survey revealed that many women had experienced sexism and misogyny, with many feeling undervalued and unsupported in the workplace. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression.
Male dominated industry
The security industry is often seen as a male dominated industry, full of testosterone and bravado. It can be a tough and sometimes intimidating environment to work in, especially for women who are in the minority. This often leads to higher levels of stress and anxiety for female security personnel, which can quickly turn into burnout if not addressed properly.
Being a female in the security industry can be difficult, as assumptions are made that women are not as mentally or physically strong as their male counterparts. This is further compounded by attitudes towards female security personnel and customers often assuming that male colleagues are the boss.
Furthermore, there is still a stigma attached to door supervision which makes it difficult for those who work in this field. Women also face challenges from being looked down upon because of their gender and people thinking they cannot do the job effectively. All these issues make it hard for females working in security, but with dedication and resilience they can overcome these obstacles and succeed in this profession.
Being able to handle difficult and dangerous situations is also a challenge. The ever-changing world we live in means there’s always the possibility of people carrying weapons such as knives, which can be very scary.
Although police officers are issued with stab-proof clothing, this is not standard for security personnel who generally have to purchase their own.
Despite the difficulties, women in security can still make a positive and successful career for themselves if they remain dedicated and resilient. It’s important to remember that this job is about more than just being tough; it’s also about providing safety and protection to people in potentially dangerous situations.
Mental toll
Unfortunately, the toll on mental health doesn’t stop there. Female security personnel are often expected to perform above and beyond their male colleagues, due to a preconception that they are weaker or less capable than their male counterparts.
This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity, which in turn can have an adverse effect on one’s mental health.
Sexism & mental health
Women in the security industry are often subject to rampant sexism and sexual discrimination. This is primarily due to the fact that the security industry has historically been male-dominated, with the vast majority of managers and higher roles held by men.
Additionally, many women who seek a career in security find themselves facing an unsupportive atmosphere from management. In addition, they are often made made to feel like their skills are not valued or respected.
Furthermore, there is a perception that working in security can be risky and dangerous due to the potential for physical violence or sexual assault. This fear often leads women to feel that they would not be safe in such an environment, and thus discourages them from seeking a career in security.
Women in security
Women in the security industry often face a variety of attitudes from male colleagues. From respect and admiration to disbelief and even dismissal, many have experienced an array of treatment from their male counterparts.
“Most treat me as part of the team. Those who meet me the first time greatly underestimate exactly what I’m capable of.”
Women report that most door supervisors treat them as part of the team. However, there are some who underestimate their capabilities or treat them with disrespect.
“Until they know me and work with me, they think I’m some idiot bimbo.”
Some women find it difficult to work with certain teams, such as those led by ex-military personnel, while others feel more like they are part of a family on other teams where respect is given freely.
“It depends on values – some teams are like family, some are critical. I find ex-military colleagues, in particular, hard to work with.”
It is clear that female door supervisors still experience unequal treatment when compared to their male peers. Many remain resilient despite these challenges. With more women being recognised and respected in the security industry, we can only hope that this inequality will soon be a thing of the past.
With years of experience under their belt, female door supervisors are mentally well equipped to handle any situation or challenge that comes their way. We should all be celebrating these amazing women for the incredible work they do in the security industry!
By understanding more about how women are treated in the security sector, we can work together to create a better environment for everyone.
Through continued dialogue and collaboration, we can ensure that all door supervisors are respected regardless of gender. That is why it is important that we continue to listen to the experiences of women in the security industry. We could create an open and inclusive environment for everyone.
Let’s continue to support our female door supervisors by recognising their hard work and dedication! With a little bit of understanding, we can make sure that all door supervisors feel safe, respected, and valued in the workplace.
Author: Steven Johnson from Working the Doors, UK
Stay well, inside and out
Waheeda, a.k.a Waydi
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