Finding Your Happy: Overcoming Burnout and Depression for Women in Leadership and Motherhood

Life as a woman in leadership comes with immense rewards, but it can also bring unique challenges—especially during major transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, and career shifts. Burnout, depression, and the pressures of maintaining a high-level career while navigating personal life changes can feel overwhelming. If you're a driven woman balancing leadership and family, this blog is for you.

Let’s dive into the often-overlooked connections between depression, burnout, and the expectations placed on women, and explore powerful, actionable strategies to help you “Find Your Happy” again.

Understanding the Challenges: Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Burnout in Leadership

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. Here’s what the statistics tell us:

• 15% of Women Experience Depression During Pregnancy and Postpartum

• Up to 60% of Women in Leadership Experience Burnout

• 1 in 3 Women in Leadership Roles Will Consider Leaving Due to Burnout

For women, especially those juggling leadership roles, family, and other personal demands, the impact of these challenges can feel compounded. Pregnancy and postpartum are already significant life transitions, and when coupled with the high demands of a leadership role, they can lead to a unique blend of burnout and depressive symptoms.

How Burnout and Depression Can Overlap—and Why It Matters

Symptoms of burnout and depression can look similar, making it difficult to differentiate between the two. Both can lead to:

• Persistent fatigue and low energy

• Feelings of worthlessness or detachment

• Difficulty concentrating and staying motivated

• Mood swings and irritability

Burnout often arises from prolonged stress tied to specific responsibilities, while depression is generally pervasive, affecting all areas of life regardless of setting. Understanding the difference is crucial because it can determine whether a reset (like taking time off) or more structured support (such as therapy) is needed.

The Role of Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) in Pregnancy-Related Depression

Women experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)—an extreme form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy—are at an even higher risk for depression. HG disrupts nearly every facet of life, making it difficult to engage in even basic self-care. Studies reveal that 60% of women with HG experience depression, often due to the severity of their symptoms and the isolation it can bring

How to Find Your Happy Again: Holistic Strategies for Sustainable Well-Being

The good news is that there are proven ways to support your mental, emotional, and physical health—even amidst the most challenging times. Here’s a roadmap:

1. Prioritize Gut Health for Mental Well-Being

• Gut health plays a significant role in mood regulation; roughly 70% of serotonin is produced in the gut. Nourishing your body with whole foods, probiotics, and fiber-rich meals can improve gut health and boost mood stability. These are the whole food plant based supplements I personally use and recommend which are safe for both pregnant and breastfeeding mums, and everyday individuals wanting to experience peak health and performance.

2. Set Up Sustainable Work-Life Boundaries

• High-performing women often struggle with boundaries, especially in leadership roles. Establish clear, structured boundaries to ensure there’s time for rest, hobbies, and connection with loved ones. Delegate tasks and design a work structure that prioritizes mental and physical health without sacrificing career goals.

3. Incorporate Restorative Rituals into Daily Life

• Small rituals can restore calm and focus. From morning stretches to evening wind-down routines with a favorite book or bath, these activities help ground you. Practicing daily gratitude or journaling can also be powerful tools for reframing thoughts and enhancing your resilience.

4. Create a Supportive Network and Seek Professional Help

• Surround yourself with people who understand the unique challenges you face. Don't hesitate to seek out a therapist, coach, or support group. For women in leadership roles, having a strong support network can provide perspective and prevent burnout from becoming overwhelming.

5. Practice Flexible, Self-Compassionate Goal Setting

• Goals are vital for progress but can also be adapted based on your current capacity. Celebrate small wins, and remember that during times of significant change—like pregnancy or a career transition—flexibility in goals is an act of self-compassion.
  

Your Path to Sustainable Happiness Starts Here

Remember, happiness is not a destination but a feeling that can be cultivated and sustained—even in the small moments. As we journey together through this “Find Your Happy” series, I invite you to follow along, try these practices, and share them with other women in your life who may also need support.

If you’re experiencing burnout, struggling through pregnancy, or simply looking to find balance again, this is your space to reclaim your energy, your joy, and your life. Let’s embrace this journey of rediscovery together. Follow along, try out the practices, and start finding fulfillment in the little things again.

Let’s make this year one of personal fulfilment, clarity, and connection.