Women’s Day

Every year, Women’s Day offers an opportunity not only to celebrate women’s achievements, but also to reflect on the unique psychological journeys women navigate. From societal pressures and gender-based roles to internalised beliefs and intergenerational trauma, women often carry emotional loads that go unseen. Therapy can be a powerful space to begin unburdening and reclaiming one’s sense of self.

The Mental Load: More Than Just Tired
Women are often primary caregivers, emotional managers, and peacekeepers in families. This “mental load” can lead to burnout, anxiety, or feelings of invisibility — all of which are legitimate psychological burdens that deserve attention and support.

Breaking the Silence: Gendered Trauma and Mental Health
Many women experience trauma that is gender-specific — including domestic violence, sexual harassment, reproductive trauma, and gendered invalidation. These experiences may shape self-esteem, relationships, and identity. Anyone who does not believe this occurs is not having open and honest conversations with the women in their lives.

Perfectionism and the Pressure to Perform
From an early age, many girls are socialised to “be good,” “be nice,” and “be feminine”. This can result in people-pleasing behaviour, perfectionism, or the inability to assert boundaries — all of which may contribute to anxiety, low self-worth, or resentment. Mental health support can help women redefine success on their own terms.

Honouring Resiliency
National Women’s day commemorates the 1956 march in protest of the pass laws. This day is testament to the impact women have on a national, society, community, neighbourhood, family and individual level. At the same time, this highlights the difficult task many women find themselves in. That is, balancing being a rock or support for so many other individuals whilst still taking care of themselves.

Closing Thoughts: A Call to Care
On this Women’s Day, let’s do more than celebrate. Let’s acknowledge the inner lives of women — the invisible strength, the untold stories, and the emotional labour. Whether through community, or compassionate conversation, may every woman feel seen, heard, and empowered to Thrive.

• Steve