Millions of New York Women Regularly Feel Overwhelmed

There is a new national study that estimates there are 4.7 million New York women that regularly feel mentally overwhelmed. Fifty-six percent feel this way at least a few times each month. New York ranked 28th nationally.

What Is the Mental Load?

The mental load is the work of remembering, planning, and organizing daily life. It can include bills, groceries, appointments, work deadlines, childcare, and helping older relatives. Small tasks can often quickly add up.

Money Creates the Most Stress

Across the country, 37 percent of women said money and finances create their largest mental burden. Health, household duties, work, relationships, parenting, and caring for relatives were other sources of pressure.

Many Women Hide Their Stress

The survey found that 72 percent of women have hidden how overwhelmed they feel. Some did not want others to worry. Others felt they needed to keep everything running. Half delayed getting mental health help because they did not have enough time.

Personal Needs Get Delayed

Women said they put off sleep, exercise, medical appointments, time with friends, hobbies, and mental health care. Nearly half felt guilty about doing something for themselves. Many said taking time off creates more work later.

Women Want Others to Notice

Most women said they would rather have a partner or family member notice what needs to be done and handle it. Only 31 percent wanted someone to ask what they could do. The results show that helping may also mean sharing the work of noticing and planning.