7 hidden habits of unhappy women who pretend to be strong, according to psychology
Women are often seen as emotional. However, research has found that unhappy women tend to mask their feelings.
When it comes to mental health, women are men can suffer from the impact of gender inequality. It is known that in many cultures around the world, men are not allowed to cry or show signs of vulnerability. On the other hand, women are expected to be very emotional, but also they are seen as unstable if they show too much openness. But, what happens when women decide to hide their feelings?
A 2022 research published in the Journal of Gender Studies revealed that any person who actively chooses to ignore their emotions is at risk of becoming unhappy. Women are no exception. In recent times, women have more responsibilities at home, work and in their relationships. This can result in more stress, anxiety and overall dissatisfaction in life.
What are the habits of unhappy women?
Unhealthy habits can significantly impact women's physical and mental well-being. Here are seven such habits, supported by recent studies:
1. Perfectionism
Many women striving for flawlessness in various aspects of their lives may be masking underlying unhappiness. This relentless pursuit often leads to self-doubt and dissatisfaction, as the unattainable standards set can never truly be met. Such perfectionism becomes a coping mechanism, diverting attention from internal emotional struggles.
2. Social withdrawal
A noticeable decline in social engagement can be a subtle indicator of concealed unhappiness. Women may begin to avoid gatherings, preferring isolation to prevent others from perceiving their inner turmoil. This withdrawal serves as a protective barrier, shielding them from potential inquiries about their well-being.
3. Excessive selflessness
While altruism is commendable, an overwhelming tendency to prioritize others' needs over one's own can signal deep-seated unhappiness. This behavior often stems from a desire to distract oneself from personal issues, leading to neglect of self-care and personal well-being. Over time, this can result in burnout and increased emotional distress.
4. Overcommitment
Filling one's schedule to the brim can be an attempt to avoid confronting personal emotions. By staying perpetually busy, women may suppress feelings of unhappiness, as constant activity leaves little room for introspection. This overcommitment, however, can exacerbate stress and prevent the necessary processing of emotions.
5. Diminished self-care
Neglecting personal health and well-being is a common trait among those hiding their unhappiness. This can manifest as irregular eating habits, lack of exercise, or disregarding mental health needs. Such neglect often reflects feelings of unworthiness or a lack of motivation to care for oneself.
6. Persistent fatigue
Chronic tiredness, beyond what can be attributed to physical exertion, may indicate emotional exhaustion. The mental effort required to mask true feelings and maintain a facade of contentment can be draining, leading to a constant state of fatigue.
7. Overcompensation with positivity
An overly cheerful demeanor, especially in inappropriate contexts, can be a defense mechanism to hide true emotions. This excessive positivity serves as a mask, preventing others from seeing the individual's genuine feelings of sadness or dissatisfaction.
What psychology says
Psychological research has explored various factors contributing to women's unhappiness. A recent 2022 study, "Predicting Emotional Volatility Using 41,000 Participants in the United Kingdom," found that women, particularly those with children, experience higher emotional volatility than men. The study analyzed over three million observations and revealed that women without children reported greater emotional volatility than men, and women with children experienced more frequent extreme emotional lows than any other demographic group.
Additionally, societal pressures and gender-based challenges significantly impact women's mental health. A study by the Young Women's Alliance in Australia highlighted that young women aged 18 to 28 reported worse mental health and lower happiness levels compared to their male counterparts. Factors such as feeling silenced in educational settings, experiencing less respect in workplaces and healthcare, and facing career hindrances due to gender were identified as contributors to this disparity.