The principle of women’s mental burden generally comes up whenever family management is discussed. The notion refers to the preoccupation of the mind with the daily tasks essential to the smooth running of the household. The general consensus is that women, much more than men, bear the brunt of this burden.

So what impact does this factor have on the life of the couple? How can we manage it on a day-to-day basis for a better mental balance? Find out more in this article.

Women’s mental workload: what is it?

Whether we’re in a relationship or not, a number of things punctuate our daily lives. These include tasks that have to be accomplished, and that keep our thoughts constantly occupied. It’s the idea of these things, and above all the fact that we can’t stop thinking about them all the time, that’s called mental workload. This notion takes into account all day-to-day tasks, as well as parental obligations in households with children.

Still referred to as household mental workload, this concept is particularly relevant to women. Indeed, although men are also affected, experience has shown that daily family life is largely managed by women. Women’s mental workloads are simply the things you think about and plan for every day. It’s also the weight it puts on your conscience, because you absolutely have to get these things done.

A MENTAL BURDEN OFTEN TOO HEAVY TO BEAR
Consciously or unconsciously, women draw up endless lists in their heads of different tasks to be accomplished on a daily basis. From shopping to cooking to parent-teacher meetings, they think of everything indefinitely. Not to mention the fact that working women have to combine their professional activities with family duties. A mental overload which, beyond appearances, is not without effect on the physical and psychological well-being of these women. Indeed, how often have you felt close to burnout, without really understanding why?

THE NEED TO ALLEVIATE THIS BURDEN AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
Many women accept this situation and convince themselves that they are only doing their duty as wives and mothers. However, bearing the brunt of family responsibilities is a major cause of domestic stress for women. And in extreme cases, this mental overload can lead to burn-out. Solutions to break out of this vicious circle are available to both men and women.

For women

KNOWING HOW TO LET GO
Unless you have 3 or more pairs of arms, it’s technically impossible to do everything. That’s why it’s so important to know how to delegate in order to free up your mind. While it’s true that you’re the lady of the house, you’re not the only one who lives there. Your partner and children can help you manage the household’s needs.

AVOID THE OBSESSIVE QUEST FOR PERFECTION
Are you one of those women for whom nothing will be as it should be if you don’t take care of it yourself? If so, your sensitivity to women’s mental burden may be due to this perfectionism. So learn to give your partner, and your children too, their rightful place in the daily running of the family.

For men

DON’T WAIT TO BE ASKED FOR HELP
Take a more active role in managing domestic and family tasks. So don’t wait to be asked to help, take the lead and, above all, assume your role.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR PATERNITY LEAVE
Even if they don’t last long, paternity leave is a useful way of lightening the mental load of women who have just given birth. So take advantage of these 11 days to fully play your role as father, husband and head of the family. Paternity leave should be compulsory, with the possibility of extending the duration.

The responsibility of both partners

While the responsibility of each partner is clearly established, the couple also has its part to play in avoiding cases of mental overload. When it comes to managing domestic and family tasks, a minimum of communication and negotiation is essential. While men must learn to offer their services spontaneously, women must not forget to ask for help when needed. Integrate this principle, and women’s mental burden will no longer be an obstacle to your personal fulfillment and that of your couple. And by doing so, you’ll be setting an example for your children, both boys and girls.

Education and the transmission of values are the surest way to change mentalities effectively and sustainably. As you’ve seen, managing the family and everyday tasks is something you learn from an early age. So don’t let your children grow up unaware of the behaviors that are essential to a perfect marriage.

Do you understand your role? Now it’s your turn

As a reminder, women’s mental workload is the fact of constantly thinking about planning and managing daily and family tasks. While the concept applies primarily to women, it also affects men. I think it’s important to draw your attention to the subject. So I hope I’ve said enough to help you understand the need to find ways to unburden yourself as much as possible.