The Invisible Weight Women Carry (Women's Day Special)

The Invisible Weight Women Carry

Have you ever heard a woman say, "I’m so tired,  but I don't even know why"? Or as a woman, maybe you've felt it yourself. That kind of fatigue isn't always about physical work. It's about the mental load , the unseen work that so many women toil with in their daily lives.

Today, on International Women's Day, let's talk about something many women live with daily but rarely get recognized for: the Mental load.

What Is the Mental Load?

The mental load is all the thinking, planning, and remembering we do to make things work.

It's remembering birthdays.

It's planning meals for the week.

It's noticing how low the laundry is or that the kid has a school trip tomorrow.

It's checking in on that friend who's been down.

It's emotional management, yours and others'.

A lot of this work is unseen. No one thanks you for it. But it's still heavy.

Why It Impacts Women More

In most societies, women are taught to prioritize others. They're the one who're supposed to know it all, care and remember it all, and fix it all. Even if she's working outside the home as well. So even if she's sitting, her mind might still be working. That constant mental effort to the point of emotional depletion, even if she hasn’t lifted a finger.

Signs You're Carrying a Heavy Mental Load

You're always exhausted, even after resting.

You have the feeling that you're always forgetting something.

You feel invisible or not appreciated.

You find yourself thinking, "If I don't do it, no one will."

You struggle to relax because your mind won't quiet.

What Can Help?

1. Talk About It:

Other people may not be aware that this work behind the scenes is a thing. Talking openly can help explain it to them so they can get an idea of what you're up against.

2. Ask for Support (Not Just Help):

Help is having someone do what you tell them to do. Support is having someone who gets to assist with the planning behind it, like arranging dinner, not necessarily cooking it.

3. Set Boundaries:

It's okay to say no. You're not lazy or selfish for holding onto your peace.

4. Rest Without Shame:

Your worth is not based on how much you accomplish. Resting is healing.

5. Share the Load:

Whether with a roommate, family member, or partner, negotiate a fair division of labor and the why behind them too.

Just because you don't see a woman doing something doesn't mean she's not working. Let's make the invisible work visible and start talking about it. Because mental health matters, and so does hers.

Considerable! This blog is for educational purposes only. I am not a mental health professional. For any mental health concerns, please consult a qualified expert or contact relevant helplines.

National Mental Health Helpline : 1926 

Sumithrayo (for emotional support and suicide prevention) https://srilankasumithrayo. :0112682570