"Can Women Truly Have It All?" is a question that frequently arises in today's world. In this era, modern ideologies propel women into professional spheres while still expecting them to shoulder family responsibilities, particularly within the African context. This perpetual juggling act often takes a toll on women's psychological well-being, akin to navigating a complex maze.

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When navigating a maze, the primary goal is to reach the destination. Mazes are inherently perplexing because they require finding the path that leads to the goal. However, envision having a map and guidance along the way – that would significantly simplify the journey. In our contemporary world, though life remains complex, we have access to something akin to a map. Our individual journeys may differ, but we have the guidance of others and access to information to assist us.

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Women go through various intricate phases of life which have been complexified by modernism. For instance, recent statistics reveal that 1 in 5 women will be diagnosed with a mental health disorder in her lifetime. Worldwide, approximately 10% of pregnant women and 13% of women who have recently given birth experience a mental disorder, primarily depression. Nearly 1 in 5 women will encounter a mental health condition during pregnancy or in the year following childbirth. Additionally, around 70% of women experience some form of mental health impact during menopause. It's noteworthy that women in full-time employment are nearly twice as likely to experience a common mental health problem as their male counterparts in full-time employment.

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It is crucial to recognize that maintaining a sound mental state requires leveraging the tools provided by modern life. Acquiring health-related knowledge and forming connections with others are essential for a fulfilling existence. There are women who have faced the challenges you currently encounter, and they have generously shared their experiences. You can find resources in various formats that offer valuable guidance for nurturing your mental well-being.

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A commendable approach to accessing these resources involves joining support groups, seeking community organisations, or consulting with mental health professionals who possess both expertise and cultural sensitivity regarding the unique challenges faced by African women. These groups create a secure environment where women can openly discuss their emotions and seek advice from those who have encountered similar situations. This is why at Débbo Africa, through the Débbo Tribe, we provide access to health information and group support that can be truly transformative.

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Furthermore, consider exploring websites, forums, or online communities designed to cater to various needs, including parenting, stress management, conflict resolution, and numerous other topics. These platforms frequently provide resources such as articles, videos, and discussions that address prevalent cultural concerns, offering guidance on coping strategies that resonate with your specific cultural background. Additionally, seeking out books, articles, or academic papers authored by experts in areas of interest can be highly beneficial. Such sources can provide invaluable insights and tailored guidance.

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Overall, finding balance in today's world can be tricky for women. The mix of modern life and traditional roles can feel like being lost in a maze. However, keep in mind that the maze becomes less daunting when you have the support of personal and community resources. Likewise, in our confusing world, all the available resources function as a guidebook to make navigating our paths easier. Using modern tools is vital for a healthy mind. So, connect with those who've been there and tap into available resources – this will guide you through the maze and help keep your mental health on track.

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References

1. Mental health at work: statistics. (n.d.). Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/mental-health-work-statistics In-Text Citation: (Mental Health at Work: Statistics, n.d.)
2. Hooper, S. C., Marshall, V. B., Becker, C. B., LaCroix, A. Z., Keel, P. K., & Kilpela, L. S. (2022, June 1). Mental health and quality of life in post-menopausal women as a function of retrospective menopause symptom severity. PubMed Central (PMC). https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000001961 In-Text Citation: (Hooper et al., 2022)
3. Family and parenting: statistics. (n.d.). Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/family-parenting-statistics In-Text Citation: (Family and Parenting: Statistics, n.d.)
4. Maternal mental health. (2019, June 24). Mental Health and Substance Use. https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/maternal-mental-health In-Text Citation: (Maternal Mental Health, 2019)

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