Strong, stretched but still standing

MENTAL Health Awareness Month is a time dedicated to increasing understanding of emotional well-being, reducing stigma, and encouraging people to take practical steps toward better mental health. With mental health concerns, women often face a unique set of pressures shaped by biology, social expectations and the multiple roles they are expected to fulfill.

“These pressures can overlap in complex ways across health, family life, relationships and parenting, making it especially important to recognise and address them with intention during this month,” said mental health counsellor Angela Dacres.

“Women’s mental health is closely tied to physical and hormonal changes throughout life, including menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum recovery and menopause. Conditions such as postpartum depression can significantly affect emotional well-being but are still often misunderstood or minimised.”

She said many women are expected to continue functioning at a high level despite fatigue, pain or emotional strain, which can lead to burnout. In addition, access to healthcare, cultural stigma and lack of support can make it harder for women to seek help or even recognise when they need it.

“Family responsibilities also place a heavy mental load on women. In many households, women take on the role of primary caregiver, managing not only physical tasks but also the emotional needs of family members,” Dacres said. “This invisible labour of remembering schedules, resolving conflicts, and maintaining stability can be exhausting and often goes unacknowledged. Over time, this constant responsibility can lead to stress, anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed, especially when there is little time left for personal rest or self-care.

She said in relationships, women may face additional emotional challenges, including communication pressures, unequal expectations, or the strain of balancing independence with partnership. Social norms sometimes encourage women to prioritise others’ needs above their own, which can result in suppressed feelings or unmet emotional needs.

“In more difficult situations, such as conflict or lack of support, this imbalance can have a serious impact on mental health and self-esteem,” Dacres said.

Parenting adds another layer of complexity. “Many women experience pressure to meet high standards of what a ‘good mother’ should be, often influenced by social media and cultural expectations. This can lead to guilt, self-doubt and constant comparison,” she explained. “Balancing parenting with work, personal goals and relationships can feel overwhelming, and without adequate support, it may contribute to emotional exhaustion or isolation.”

She said Mental Health Awareness Month offers women an opportunity to reflect, reset and take intentional steps toward better well-being. This can include setting boundaries to protect personal time, seeking professional support when needed, and building stronger support networks with friends, family or community groups.

“It is also a time to prioritise self-care in realistic ways, whether through rest, exercise, journaling, or simply taking breaks without guilt,” Dacres said. “Educating yourself about mental health and recognising early signs of stress or burnout can make a meaningful difference.”

She said using this month optimally does not require dramatic changes, but rather, consistent, small actions that support long-term well-being. By acknowledging the challenges and actively addressing them, women can use this time not only to cope but to build resilience and a healthier balance in their daily lives.