Burnout Beyond the Workplace: Mental Health of Homemakers in India

Home

Burnout

Burnout Beyond the Workplace: ...

Mental Health

Anjali Ann Gajendran

May 15 , 2024

The conversation around burnout has rightfully gained traction in recent years. Images of overworked, stressed-out employees come to mind. But what about burnout that happens outside the traditional workplace? In India, a significant portion of women dedicate themselves to homemaking, a role that often goes unrecognised and undervalued. This article explores the mental health struggles of homemakers in India and the urgent need to address them.

In societies with traditional gender roles, like India, the responsibility of managing household chores and nurturing family relationships often falls on women. This can create a significant workload and emotional burden.

The Unseen Workload

Homemaking is a demanding, 24/7 job. It encompasses childcare, cooking, cleaning, managing finances, and emotional labor – providing care and support to family members. Unlike a paid job, there are no set hours, no breaks, and little to no social interaction with adults. This constant pressure can lead to exhaustion, feelings of isolation, and a lack of purpose.

The societal perception of homemaking in India often trivializes its importance. It's seen as a natural extension of a woman's role, not a demanding skill. This lack of recognition can be incredibly isolating and lead to feelings of worthlessness. Furthermore, the pressure to maintain a perfect household can be immense, leading to studies showing a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression among homemakers compared to working women. The constant demands, lack of social support, and societal pressures create a breeding ground for mental health issues.

What is Burnout?

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress. It's typically associated with chronic workplace stress, but it can affect anyone in any situation, including homemakers. Here's ways in which burnout might manifest itself:

Photo by Anthony Tran Team on Unsplash

Emotional Signs:

Exhaustion: Feeling constantly drained and lacking the energy to complete daily tasks.
Cynicism and Detachment: Loss of interest or feeling negative about homemaking and family life.
Reduced Sense of Accomplishment: Doubting their abilities to manage the household effectively.
Irritability and Frustration: Feeling on edge and easily snapping at family members.
Anxiety and Depression: Experiencing excessive worry or feelings of hopelessness.

Physical Signs:

Fatigue and Difficulty Sleeping: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, leading to daytime tiredness.
Aches and Pains: Headaches, muscle tension, and body aches are physical symptoms often linked to chronic stress.
Changes in Appetite: Eating significantly less or more than usual due to stress.

Photo by Claudia Wolff Team on Unsplash

How Homemakers Experience Burnout Differently:

Lack of External Validation: Unlike paid jobs, homemaking often lacks recognition for the effort invested. This lack of external validation can worsen feelings of worthlessness and ineffectiveness.
Monotonous Routine: The repetitive nature of housework can lead to a sense of lack of accomplishment and stagnation.
Social Isolation: Limited social interaction with adults can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and detachment.
Unrealistic Expectations: Societal pressure to maintain a perfect household can be overwhelming and contribute to burnout.

Providing Support

There's a need for a multi-pronged approach to address this issue. Firstly, there should be a shift in societal perception. Homemaking is a valuable contribution to the family unit and deserves recognition. Here's how we can achieve this:

Photo by LinkedIn Sales Solutions Team on Unsplash

Open Communication: Family members can initiate open conversations about the workload and its impact on mental health.
Shared Responsibilities: A more equitable distribution of household chores can ease the burden on homemakers. Fathers can take on a more active role in childcare and housework.
Emotional Support: Family members can offer emotional support by creating a safe space for homemakers to express their feelings and frustrations.

Secondly, homemakers themselves need access to resources and support systems. Here are some ways to empower them:

Online Communities and Support Groups: Online platforms can connect homemakers with others facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Workshops and Courses: Workshops on stress management, self-care techniques, and time management can equip homemakers with tools to improve their well-being.
Encouraging Interests: Finding hobbies and activities outside the home can provide a sense of purpose and identity. This could be anything from pursuing a forgotten passion to joining a fitness class.

Photo by Dylan Gillis Team on Unsplash

Finally, mental health awareness campaigns need to encompass the struggles of homemakers. By bringing this issue to light, we can create a more supportive environment for people who dedicate themselves to creating a home.

Burnout affects not just the individual but the entire family unit. Recognising the mental health struggles of homemakers in India is crucial for creating a society that values well-being and fosters a healthy environment for all. If you are someone feeling stressed and burnt out, there is always help. Heart It Out provides therapy and counselling for anyone facing burnout or stress. Reach out to seek professional help today.

Photo by Ashwini Chaudhary(Monty) Team on Unsplash