The Unpaid 'Second Shift'
The term 'second shift' was coined by sociologist Arlie Hochschild to describe the unpaid work women often perform after their paid workday ends. This isn't just about chores; it's the dual burden of a career and the lion's share of household management
and childcare. Even in households where both partners work full-time, studies have shown that women disproportionately handle domestic responsibilities, leading to significantly fewer leisure hours compared to men. This constant juggling act contributes to chronic stress, exhaustion, and burnout, as the workday never truly ends. The pressure is both external and internal, rooted in long-standing societal expectations about caregiving roles.
The Weight of Emotional Labour
Emotional labour is the often invisible work of managing feelings—both your own and others'. It's remembering birthdays, anticipating a partner's needs, soothing a distressed child, and maintaining harmony at home and work. This type of labour is rarely acknowledged or valued, yet it is disproportionately expected of women. Over time, the constant need to be emotionally attuned to everyone else while suppressing one's own needs can lead to feelings of resentment, anxiety, and being taken for granted. The American Psychological Association notes that women consistently report higher stress levels, partly due to these relational and emotional demands.
The Pressure of 'Perfect'
In many parts of Indian society, women face immense pressure to be the perfect daughter, wife, mother, and employee. This ideal is often amplified by media and cultural narratives that champion a narrow definition of beauty and success. Research has highlighted the 'Perfect Indian Girl Syndrome,' where women are expected to excel in every sphere without complaint, seeing themselves as symbols of culture. This impossible standard can lead to significant anxiety, low self-esteem, and body image issues. The constant striving for an unattainable ideal of perfection, whether in appearance, home life, or career, creates a persistent source of stress and feelings of inadequacy.
Navigating Workplace Microaggressions
While overt discrimination is often addressed by policy, women frequently deal with subtle but harmful microaggressions in the workplace. These can include being interrupted in meetings, having their expertise questioned, or being expected to take on 'office housework' like planning events or mediating conflicts. Studies in India show these subtle acts signal that women don't belong, creating a hostile environment that can lead to feelings of isolation and identity threat. Despite India producing a large share of female STEM graduates, their representation in the workforce drops dramatically, partly due to these systemic barriers that chip away at confidence and career progression. The constant need to navigate these biases is an added layer of psychological strain.
The Influence of Hormonal Cycles
Beyond social and environmental factors, a woman's mental health is also intrinsically linked to her biology. Hormonal fluctuations throughout life—during puberty, monthly menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause—can profoundly impact mood and emotional well-being. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone interact with brain neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood. When these hormone levels shift, it can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, or feelings of sadness. While these changes are normal, they can become a significant source of distress, and it is crucial to recognise when these shifts go beyond typical mood changes and require professional support.
