Breaking the Silence: Women, Anxiety, and the Global Perspective
The term "anxiety" often carries a negative connotation, leading many women to silently grapple with its effects. The burden of stress we bear can give rise to unhealthy habits that impact both our skin and overall well-being. As women, there's a pervasive expectation that we should excel in multiple roles: pursuing a career, caring for our children, managing household chores, preparing dinner, providing transportation, maintaining a healthy exercise routine, and attempting to maintain an active social life.
In our nurturing and caring nature as women, we find ourselves compelled to care for others. Even if you consider yourself somewhat self-centered, there remains an innate aspect within us that seeks to nurture and support. When I contemplate the multitude of responsibilities I'm expected to shoulder and the ongoing events in Gaza and Israel, my anxiety surges. The relentless influx of distressing news through various media channels inundates us with images and videos of innocent civilians enduring unimaginable suffering. Children are caught in the crossfire, and families are torn apart by the horrors of senseless war. This has resulted in one of the most extensive humanitarian crises in the world, leaving me overwhelmed, saddened, and furious. My heart goes out to the women who are forced to maintain composure for the sake of their children, those who have tragically lost their children, and those who carry an unbearable burden no woman should ever have to bear.
Though I'm gripped by anxiety over the ongoing war crimes, I'm fortunate not to be living through such horrors. I wake up each morning with gratitude, cherishing the moments I share with my son and husband as we embark on our day. I appreciate the nourishment on my plate and the clean water in my cup. I'm thankful for peaceful nights of sleep, free from the fear of my home being bombed. I'm grateful that I can reach out to my family and express my love for them.
For women beyond the borders of Gaza, we owe it to our counterparts to maintain a sense of optimism and gratitude for the simple blessings we possess. This war has put my daily stress and anxiety into perspective. I'm not suggesting that my daily concerns are less significant, but I would rather confront them freely, understanding they aren't life-or-death situations. I have choices, and at the end of the day, I can dictate how these stresses affect my life. I have the freedom to truly live, a privilege millions of women currently lack.
To alter the narrative surrounding anxiety, we must take action and refuse to conceal it. We can achieve this by encouraging open conversations without judgment, actively checking in on our girlfriends, mothers, daughters, and co-workers, recognizing the signs and providing support when necessary, contributing to charitable causes and volunteering when possible, sharing the stories of silenced women, and staying informed. However, it's essential to remember that you can only be of assistance when you also care for your own well-being. Recognize when you need a break – from the news, social media, work, family responsibilities, and more. Take the time you require and then re-engage, lightening the load of another woman.
My thoughts and prayers will continue to encompass the innocent civilians in Gaza and Israel, as I persistently pray for peace over war. My heart reaches out to all the women enduring suffering worldwide. I am committed to doing my part, and I extend my gratitude to all those who share in this commitment.
Continue to live with gratitude.
Live, love, and care for yourself.
Maria LyVonne
