Doc: Mental woes hit working mums the most

IPOH: Working mothers and single parents are among the most vulnerable to suffer mental health problems at the workplace, says Dr Loo Tsui Huei.

“This is especially so where emotional support may not be easily available,” said the Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun consultant psychiatrist.

Dr Loo said after a hard day at work, many mothers continued carrying out an equally heavy load to care for their family at home.

“Working mothers also often struggle with the feelings of guilt that they are away from their children while they are growing up,” she said at an interview yesterday.

Dr Loo said it was vital for mothers to have their “me” time, and learn to “unplug” in order to recuperate from mental and physical exhaustion.

“Having a supportive working environment helps in maintaining productivity among working mothers,” she added.

She also called on employers to actively take care of their employees’ mental well-being, saying many workers would bottle up their unhappiness.