Women’s mental health in South Africa: Why being ‘strong’ comes at a cost

Poor sleep is increasingly being linked to deteriorating mental health, with experts warning that the connection is far more profound than previously understood. Clinical psychologist Tony de Gouveia, based at Netcare Akeso Alberton, highlights that insufficient sleep is silently contributing to rising rates of anxiety, depression, and diminished productivity. De Gouveia argues that sleep is often overlooked as a critical component of mental wellbeing, despite extensive research showing its vital role in both cognitive function and emotional stability. According to de Gouveia, between a third and half of individuals fail to achieve the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep each night. This trend is especially alarming in a society already grappling with high levels of stress. He emphasizes that sacrificing sleep in favor of productivity is counterproductive, noting that rest is essential for maintaining efficiency and creativity. The expert warns that modern lifestyle choices, such as excessive screen time and late-night scrolling on social media, are exacerbating sleep issues. These behaviors, combined with exposure to blue light, disrupt natural sleep patterns and contribute to poorer sleep quality, particularly among younger populations. Sleep disturbances are not limited to lifestyle factors alone. Stress and anxiety play a pivotal role in disrupting sleep, with racing thoughts preventing individuals from falling asleep. De Gouveia explains that processing a single stressful thought can take up to 20 minutes, delaying the onset of sleep and perpetuating a cycle of sleeplessness and heightened anxiety. Additionally, women are disproportionately affected by sleep difficulties, influenced by both biological and societal factors, including caregiving responsibilities and hormonal fluctuations. De Gouveia cautions against relying on substances like alcohol or cannabis to aid sleep, highlighting that these can interfere with natural sleep cycles and potentially lead to dependency. He underscores the importance of prioritizing sleep as a necessity rather than a luxury, advocating for lifestyle adjustments that promote better rest. Recommendations include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting device usage before bedtime, avoiding stimulants later in the day, and ensuring a conducive sleep environment. In South Africa, the intersection of sleep deprivation and mental health is particularly pronounced among women. Research indicates that nearly a quarter of adult women experience symptoms of depression, with the figure slightly higher than among men. The pressures faced by women, ranging from managing households and careers to navigating personal health challenges, often result in chronic fatigue and emotional strain. Despite this, seeking mental health support remains challenging, partly due to socioeconomic barriers and lingering stigmas around discussing emotional distress. Experts argue that the cultural expectation for women to be resilient and self-reliant can mask underlying mental health struggles. This pressure is compounded by factors such as pregnancy, menopause, and economic instability, all of which can influence mood and overall wellbeing. Mental health professionals emphasize the need for greater awareness and access to resources, urging women to recognize the significance of their mental health and seek appropriate care when necessary. As discussions around mental health continue to evolve, the role of sleep in maintaining psychological balance is gaining recognition. De Gouveia encourages individuals experiencing persistent sleep issues to consult healthcare professionals to explore potential underlying causes. Whether stemming from physical ailments or psychological stressors, addressing sleep concerns is crucial for holistic wellbeing. With increasing awareness, efforts are underway to destigmatize mental health challenges and promote healthier lifestyles that prioritize rest and recovery.