This International Women’s Day, while celebrating the achievements and resilience of women globally, it is crucial to acknowledge the unseen battles fought behind the ever-present smile.
Joyce Namutosi, a counselor at Butiru health center in Manafwa district and a single mother of three children shares inciteful information about the resilience of women.
According to Namutosi, many women, throughout their lives, master the art of maintaining a facade of composure, even when burdened by internal struggles.
“This isn’t a sign of weakness, but a complex interplay of emotional resilience, societal pressures, and ingrained coping mechanisms,” Namutosi says.
She notes that the weight of expectations on women for generations,has conditioned them to prioritize the comfort and well-being of others, often at the expense of their own.
“This caretaker syndrome deeply rooted in social expectations and gender roles, compels them to suppress their emotions,” Namutosi adds .
Namutosi for instance shares that as a mother, she tends to mask her own grief or pain to shield her children from further pain, a testament to a woman’s unwavering dedication.
Furthermore in moments of crisis, women often exhibit remarkable emotional compartmentalization, effectively “locking away” their pain to navigate challenging situations. This survival instinct allows them to manage emergencies, fulfill professional obligations, and provide unwavering support to those around them.
“The ability to maintain composure during adversity is a powerful tool, though it comes at a cost,” Namutosi adds.
Additionally women act as a shield of empathy, where the decision to smile, even amidst turmoil, can also stem from a deep sense of protective empathy. Women may choose to project an aura of calm to prevent loved ones from worrying, avoid appearing vulnerable in potentially hostile environments, or maintain social harmony within their communities.
“This act of selflessness, prevalent in collectivist cultures, underscores their commitment to the well-being of others,” Namutosi says.
The Science of the Smile
Interestingly, there’s a neurological basis for this behavior. Studies suggest that smiling activates facial feedback pathways, triggering the release of dopamine and providing a temporary mood boost. This creates a self-reinforcing loop, offering momentary relief in the face of emotional distress.
An Intergenerational Legacy
The ability to endure hardship silently is often passed down through generations. Many women learn this behavior from their mothers and grandmothers, who normalized emotional suppression as a means of survival.
This creates enduring patterns of emotional masking, shaping the way women navigate their emotional landscapes.
However, Namutosi advises that it is crucial to acknowledge the potential long-term consequences of chronic emotional masking as burnout, somatic symptoms, and other psychological challenges can arise from the constant suppression of emotions.
This Women’s Day, let’s not only celebrate the strength of women but also encourage healthy emotional expression.
It’s vital to create a space where women feel safe to share their vulnerabilities, to dismantle the expectations that force them to hide their pain.
“This day should act as a reminder that true strength lies not just in enduring silently, but also in embracing authenticity and seeking support when needed,” Namutosi notes.
Let us work towards a future where women can express their full range of emotions without fear of judgment, fostering a healthier and more equitable world for all.
