“Women are capable of doing it all”: this is something I have always identified with. However, there is a difference between having the ability to do something and feeling obligated to do it. There is a palpable pressure on women to effectively fulfill their role as mothers, as well as their other roles: as women, wives, professionals, daughters, friends, among others. The expectations are always present, but what about recognition or compensation?

Recently, The Economist published a study on how motherhood affects women’s professional development. The study highlights the significant pay gap faced by mothers, as well as the barriers they encounter when returning to the labor market and the overall reduction of their professional growth opportunities.

In my case, despite the opportunities I have had access to, as well as the support of my husband and my surroundings, navigating motherhood alongside my other roles continues to be a significant challenge. Throughout my more than five years as a mother, I have experienced many intense emotions for which I was definitely not prepared. Unlike my other roles, this one has no beginning and end, no financial compensation, and no everyday recognition.

I am not only expected to be a good mother, generate income, and perform effectively at work, but also to be a good wife, pursue my professional development, and fulfill my roles as a friend, daughter, among others. While I am grateful to have a partner who is actively involved and committed to parenting, it is important to recognize that fathers are not subjected to the same expectations that society places on mothers and women in general.

In this context, stress, anxiety, and the mental load can become so overwhelming that the idea of giving up everything else comes to mind at least once a day. Although finding the time and space to care for my mental health is a significant challenge, in my experience, it is essential: without mental health, I cannot manage everything else. Moreover, I am aware that neglecting my emotional well-being affects my relationships with my loved ones, but most importantly, it affects my relationship with myself.

This Mother’s Day, I invite you to reflect on how we are supporting our wives, partners, sisters, friends, and colleagues throughout their journey of motherhood. Based on my experience, I would like to share three recommendations:

1. Sometimes, the simplest actions can make the biggest difference. Talking to and listening to a mother, whether she is a family member, colleague, or friend, may be exactly what she needs. Being available to listen to her concerns without judgment can provide meaningful support.
2. Make time for her to have a space of her own, whether to relax, exercise, read a book, or engage in another activity she enjoys.
3. Celebrate her achievements, whether they are big or small. The journey of motherhood is a significant challenge, and overcoming small obstacles is an important accomplishment that deserves recognition.

#EveryoneForMentalHealth