Tejal Sinha
In most professional environments, the structure of a workday is often well-defined with designated hours, scheduled breaks and a clear end to the day’s responsibilities. However, there is no denial in the fact that, despite well-defined workdays, health complications associated with work-related stress and burn-out is a major concern and is often well-acknowledged. But, owing to the widespread perception that homemakers lead relatively relaxed lives, the health implications on home-makers tends to get overlooked.
Dr Jagadeesh KH, Consultant – Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road shares, “Homemakers shoulder a continuous and multifaceted workload that spans physical labor, emotional caregiving and mental management. Most often these responsibilities cannot be fit into a well-defined or pre-planned schedule, which may have serious implications on their long-term health and well-being. Discussed here are some common health risks homemakers are at risk of, and why homemakers need structured health habits, beyond just screenings, to prevent silent health crises.”
The Health Risks Homemakers Face:
1. Respiratory issues: Breathing problems can occur or get worse due to exposure to cleaning chemicals, dust, and molds.
2. Chronic fatigue: Constant physical and emotional work without enough rest can lead to ongoing tiredness and affect overall health.
3. Stress and mental health issues: Managing a household and childcare can cause chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.
4. Obesity and related conditions: Not having time for self-care and exercise can lead to weight gain and health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
5. Nutritional deficiencies: Busy schedules can cause skipped meals or unbalanced diets, leading to nutritional deficiencies.
6. Joint pain: Repetitive tasks and heavy lifting can strain joints, causing chronic pain and arthritis.
7. Cardiac risks: Stress and lack of exercise can increase the risk of heart disease, which might not be noticed until it becomes severe.
8. Skin irritation: Frequent use of water and cleaning products can cause skin irritation and dermatitis.
9. Burns and cuts: Cooking and using sharp objects can lead to burns and cuts.Benefits of Self-Care
1. Regular exercise helps manage weight, reduce stress and improve heart health.
2. A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains maintains energy levels and overall health.
3. Prioritizing sleep aids in recovery and reduces the risk of chronic fatigue and other health issues.
4. Stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or hobbies can improve mental health.
Benefits of Structured Health Habits
1. Scheduled health check-ups: Regular visits to healthcare providers can detect potential issues early.
2. Routine physical activity: Setting specific times for exercise, like morning walks or yoga, ensures consistency.
3. Meal planning: Preparing balanced meals in advance prevents nutritional deficiencies and promotes better eating habits.
4. Rest periods: Taking short breaks during the day helps manage fatigue.
“Homemakers are crucial for household harmony but often sacrifice their health. Recognizing the health risks they face, and the importance of structured self-care routines is essential. By incorporating regular exercise, balanced diets, adequate sleep and stress management techniques,” explains Dr Jagadeesh.
