Women have historically been the primary caregivers for their families, including children, parents and others, regardless of work status. And while gender roles have evolved over the years, pandemic protocols have placed the greater burden on women.
Even before the pandemic, statistics show that women carry as much as three times the home care responsibilities as men. Changes mandated by social distancing and stay-at-home orders have made many of these tasks more difficult and time-consuming, especially concerning childcare and home schooling. Both men and women have seen home responsibilities change as entire families are working and learning from home, but women continue to carry the greater burden, from laundry and cleaning to cooking to teaching.
The caregiving role of women puts them at greater risk of experiencing physical and mental health issues related to stress, including chronic pain, depression and anxiety. Women who shoulder most of the home duties while working full time are at even greater risk, and Covid 19 has added even more stress to this situation.
An increasing number of women are reporting plans to reduce hours at paid jobs because of increased home responsibilities related to the pandemic. This also can lead to financial stress and negative feelings of self-worth.
Doctors emphasize that women need to address these additional burdens and focus even more on healthy behaviors and managing stress in order to avoid health issues that can become chronic and debilitating.
Consider the following to take care of yourself
- Set time aside for working out, stretching or meditating.
- Plan for extra sleep to allow your body to recharge.
- Do not give up a job that is rewarding and/or financially beneficial. Instead, adjust your schedule to allow for home responsibilities.
- Ask family members for help with cleaning, cooking and care.
- Plan healthy meals and drink plenty of water.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
Are you and family members Covid weary?
- Turn off the news for awhile and destress with a movie.
- Bundle up and take a walk.
- Plan weekly Facetime or Zoom calls with those you haven’t seen.
The team at Stark Women’s Center is available for counseling and guidance as we continue to work through this pandemic. Contact our office if you have concerns about stress, anxiety, depression or any other healthy condition. You are not alone.