What is the Mental Load?

'Mental load' is a burden experienced by people (usually women) who hold most of the responsibility for managing a household. This includes staying on top of every little detail in the family, from organising dinner every night to getting bills paid on time, choosing schools for the kids and arranging doctors appointments and birthday parties.

On top of all this, the woman may also have a paid role with its own demands and expectations. Without support, these women may struggle to contribute effectively at work, have poor mental wellness and/or be forced to leave paid work.

Workplaces that recognise the impacts of a mental load are more likely to retain these female staff and support a mentally healthy workforce where they can perform at their best.

Women carrying a mental load say:

• They are overwhelmed. Before they even arrive at work, they're exhausted by the multiple decisions and demands they have already had to manage that morning and during the previous night.

• They cannot see any way out, or any support that would make a sustainable difference. This impacts their confidence, mental well-being and capacity to perform well.

• They struggle to balance paid work and family needs, with each impacting the other.

• They are increasingly concerned about rising costs and how to meet financial obligations.

What results can we expect?

• Mental load impacts will be recognised early and easily, then resolved quickly

• Your employees will proactively request support (and offer possible solutions) before concerns become a crisis

• Less absenteeism and turnover, with lower recruitment and development costs

• Less impacts to workflow and productivity

"Thank you so much for the support you have provided over the last 12 months. You have always maintained such a professional way of working as well as being approachable and real.”

Rebecca Adamson, Manager, Ozcare , Mackay

Working with Deb was a joy as she is organised, realistic, knowledgeable, sensitive and kind. Feedback confirmed that this group was well-timed, much needed and extremely therapeutic.

Maxine Giles, Centacare, Mackay

"Having the opportunity to receive regular professional coaching from Deb Rae for the past few years has been invaluable. I would often leave our sessions feeling energised and more focused."

Nicolette Ffrost, GM, The Neighbourhood Hub