Understanding women's mental health challenges in South Africa
Women face a range of mental health challenges that can be shaped by biological, social, political and cultural factors, according to registered counsellor Josephine Conde.
Conde who is registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF), explained that gender roles and expectations placed on women across cultures can create pressure to juggle multiple responsibilities, including being a wife, mother, daughter and caregiver.
The expectation to be the “perfect” woman can result in women prioritising the needs of others over their own wellbeing and self-care.
"Over time, this can lead to stress, exhaustion, and eventually, to burnout," Conde said.
