Women in the workplace are stressed and there are numbers to prove it. Despite progress toward gender equality, professional women continue to experience higher levels of stress, anxiety and burnout than their male counterparts.
Research shows that work-related stress affects women 50% more than men of the same age, making them more vulnerable to mental health challenges, exhaustion and even chronic illnesses like heart disease.
Beyond the pressures of leadership and career growth, many women are also juggling multiple roles as mothers, caregivers or household managers while facing persistent workplace discrimination and pay inequality.
With a global labour force participation rate of under 47% for women compared to 72% for men, female professionals are often working harder just to have a seat at the table.
But what makes the stress gap between men and women so stark? Experts point to several key factors, including:
Social pressure to be agreeable: Women are often expected to be warm, collaborative, and accommodating, making it harder for them to assert boundaries or advocate for themselves without facing backlash.
Lower pay and financial insecurity: Women continue to earn less than their male counterparts for the same roles, leading to greater financial stress and limited economic freedom.
Stereotype threat: The fear of confirming negative gender stereotypes about women’s capabilities can lead to overcompensation and burnout or, in some cases, self-doubt and underperformance.
What can we do?
Given that April is Stress Awareness Month, WomenIN encourages individuals to recognise stress, take proactive steps to manage it and advocate for workplace environments that prioritise well-being.
Here are three key ways to take control:
Prioritise self-care: Small habits like regular exercise, mindfulness and setting boundaries can significantly reduce stress levels.
Build a strong support network: Connect with mentors, peers and allies who provide encouragement and guidance.
Advocate for change: Speak up about fair pay, equal opportunities and inclusive workplace policies to create healthier and more balanced work environments.
The journey towards balance and empowerment is ongoing, but with support, awareness and systemic change, a future where women can lead without sacrificing their well-being is within reach.
To continue the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals who care about holistic wellness, meaningful connections and conversations that drive change, pre-register for WomenIN Festival 2025 today. Secure your opportunity to be part of a community that empowers and uplifts women across industries.
Need support? Reach out to these helplines
Experiencing stress is not a sign of failure, but it is a call to action. If stress, anxiety or burnout is affecting your well-being, you are not alone. Reach out for help:
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 456 789 (24-hour helpline)
SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
Mental Health Information Line: 0800 567 567
Your well-being matters. Seeking help is a sign of strength.
Research shows that work-related stress affects women 50% more than men of the same age, making them more vulnerable to mental health challenges, exhaustion and even chronic illnesses like heart disease.
Beyond the pressures of leadership and career growth, many women are also juggling multiple roles as mothers, caregivers or household managers while facing persistent workplace discrimination and pay inequality.
With a global labour force participation rate of under 47% for women compared to 72% for men, female professionals are often working harder just to have a seat at the table.
But what makes the stress gap between men and women so stark? Experts point to several key factors, including:
Social pressure to be agreeable: Women are often expected to be warm, collaborative, and accommodating, making it harder for them to assert boundaries or advocate for themselves without facing backlash.
Lower pay and financial insecurity: Women continue to earn less than their male counterparts for the same roles, leading to greater financial stress and limited economic freedom.
Stereotype threat: The fear of confirming negative gender stereotypes about women’s capabilities can lead to overcompensation and burnout or, in some cases, self-doubt and underperformance.
What can we do?
Given that April is Stress Awareness Month, WomenIN encourages individuals to recognise stress, take proactive steps to manage it and advocate for workplace environments that prioritise well-being.
Here are three key ways to take control:
Prioritise self-care: Small habits like regular exercise, mindfulness and setting boundaries can significantly reduce stress levels.
Build a strong support network: Connect with mentors, peers and allies who provide encouragement and guidance.
Advocate for change: Speak up about fair pay, equal opportunities and inclusive workplace policies to create healthier and more balanced work environments.
The journey towards balance and empowerment is ongoing, but with support, awareness and systemic change, a future where women can lead without sacrificing their well-being is within reach.
To continue the conversation and connect with like-minded individuals who care about holistic wellness, meaningful connections and conversations that drive change, pre-register for WomenIN Festival 2025 today. Secure your opportunity to be part of a community that empowers and uplifts women across industries.
Need support? Reach out to these helplines
Experiencing stress is not a sign of failure, but it is a call to action. If stress, anxiety or burnout is affecting your well-being, you are not alone. Reach out for help:
South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): 0800 456 789 (24-hour helpline)
SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322
Mental Health Information Line: 0800 567 567
Your well-being matters. Seeking help is a sign of strength.
