The present lock-down situation has been difficult on everyone, old and young alike, men and women alike. Really – men and women alike?

Women across all ages and social status are undergoing a lot of stress during the lock-down. Most of the states have reported a spurt in domestic violence cases in the last couple of months. This has been mostly attributed to financial problems, apprehensions about future, job insecurities, etc. faced by families resulting in an outbreak of stress, the burnt of which has to be faced by the woman in the family in the form of violence. Another very common way of venting out stress by husbands has been sexual overdrive – be it with or without consent, which is naturally very traumatizing for the wife.

Many women of present times are efficient, managing office and home effectively. However, the regular routine prior to the pandemic, would seldom include doing both the same time. In usual scenarios, home and office work are clearly segregated into different time frames. But now, that is not the case. The clear expectation from others and from yourself is to be able to manage everything together – be it household chores, husband, in-laws, kids, meetings, phone calls, emails and work. But is it taking a toll on women physically and emotionally? of course!

For most women, looking good is not just about physical appearance. It is also a confidence booster. Having to hear how unkempt you are looking these days, or how you have suddenly gained weight makes one feel low. Taking that time out for yourself, be it a visit to the salon, a quick gym session or just some quality grooming time for yourself at home is a big stress buster. It is something that makes you love yourself. As materialistic as it may sound, not getting that “me” time amidst all the chaos around you, sure adds to the frustration. 

We are all used to getting a lot of funny messages, jokes and posts on social media regarding the woes of a husband during lock-down – the dishes he needs to wash, the cleaning up he needs to do. Even, women tend to sympathize with the men on seeing such posts. But do we take a minute out to think that this is what a woman does on a regular basis? So, sympathizing with men is quite fine – as this is a completely unfamiliar territory for them, but be sure to appreciate the woman who does all this and in fact much more all along, without getting any acknowledgement at all.

Here’s hoping that these tough times end soon. And till then the hope remains that women get a little more support, a little more understanding, a little more appreciation and a little more love from everyone around coz – a happy woman sure can spread cheer and positivity all around her that will help everyone get through these testing times.