The book addresses many topics that are highly relevant to adult women, including why women often put themselves last; ways to overcome stress, overwhelm and anxiety; reproduction, menopause and mental health; and managing parenthood challenges and relationship issues. Other topics include the impact of trauma and physical illness on mental health, and strategies to manage these impacts; and how to silence self-criticism and grow self-worth.
In writing about these topics, Dr Cate Howell sees her role as not only gathering and presenting the key information, but also being a companion for the reader, having a supportive voice and giving plenty of encouragement, all of which can help at times of challenge and times of growth.
Above all, The Flourishing Woman is a guide to fostering our mental health and wellbeing, which includes getting in touch with our authentic selves, feeling connected, growing as a person (even at times of challenge), and finding a sense of purpose and meaning. In other words, flourishing!