Last week, during a therapy session, my therapist asked me a direct question: “How are you coping with the Delta variant?” She continued, “Are you feeling anxious or concerned?”
“Absolutely,” I replied. The fear for myself and my children is overwhelming. I dread the thought of shutdowns and lockdowns due to COVID-19. It’s exhausting to parent during a pandemic, and the lack of local regulations and mask mandates has been incredibly frustrating. All I want is to keep my family safe and healthy. But her question hinted at a deeper issue. I knew it; she knew it. The silence that followed spoke volumes.
“I love my job,” I admitted. “I don’t want to risk losing it.”
At first glance, the connection between the Delta variant and my professional life might not seem clear. But countless women are grappling with similar fears as COVID-19 cases rise once again. Schools, daycares, and camps are shutting down, and when this happens, it’s often the woman who has to make adjustments. She is the one who takes time off to manage the chaos. Economists warn that we may be facing a significant wave of women leaving the workforce once more. “While the overall economy might not feel the impact greatly, this is crucial for women,” said Sarah Mitchell, an economist and associate professor. “We risk witnessing more women becoming casualties of the great resignation.”
Some people might argue that these concerns are exaggerated or that women are being overly dramatic about their challenges during this time. Regardless of gender, every household has a default caregiver, and traditionally that role has been filled by mothers. The numbers tell a grim story: over 13 million women left the workforce at the pandemic’s onset, leading to the lowest participation rates for women since the 1980s.
“Everyone is on edge about what the fall will bring,” said Rachel Carter, a principal economist at the U.S. Census Bureau, especially since women have not fully recovered from the previous wave. Currently, there are about 1.5 million fewer working mothers compared to pre-pandemic levels. Fathers have also felt the impact, with many reducing their hours or taking time off, but women, who often earn less than their male counterparts, have shouldered the most significant burden. They are the teachers, caregivers, and keepers of the household.
Research from Sarah Mitchell and Laura Jacobs at consulting firm Seramount indicates two main factors that help women maintain their jobs: flexible schedules and the ability to work remotely, alongside having family support nearby. A robust support system significantly enhances a woman’s chances of staying employed.
Additionally, women are facing health challenges as well. A recent study from the University of Illinois discovered that the stressors related to COVID-19 have led to increased health issues for women, including alarming rates of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. “Women are primarily responsible for parenting and caregiving,” noted Dr. Emily Johnson, a psychiatric professor and co-author of the study. “They are pivotal in managing and recovering from this pandemic, but they are also at significant risk for developing mental health issues due to socioeconomic stressors.” This highlights the urgent need to address the mental well-being of mothers.
The future remains uncertain. Moms clearly need support, but the type and amount of help required vary significantly. There needs to be a concerted effort from various sectors: employers should provide more flexible work options, and a strong support system is essential. Additionally, moms need time off for both mental and physical breaks, and it’s crucial for fathers to share responsibilities. The burden should not rest solely on mothers.
Will these necessary changes occur swiftly? It’s hard to say, especially with the enduring patriarchal norms that still prevail in society. Despite women having been in the workforce for decades, a true work/life balance continues to be elusive. If moms are to navigate this pandemic successfully while maintaining their jobs and mental health, significant changes are essential.
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In summary, the ongoing pandemic continues to impose significant challenges for mothers, affecting their mental health, job security, and overall well-being. Support systems, flexible work options, and shared responsibilities are vital for mothers to navigate these trying times effectively.
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