Mothers shoulder 71 per cent of household mental load, study finds

(L-R) Carolyne Nekesa, Associate General Manager - Marketing, Minet Kenya; Dr. Nancy Kabia, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Aga Khan University Hospital; Naomi Mwangi, Lactation Specialist, Aga Khan University Hospital; and Joyce Gatwiri, Wellness Officer, Minet Kenya, go through an informational flier during Minet Kenya's "Chic and Cherished - A Mother's Day Reawakening" event for members of its Blooming Mums Club. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

A new study by the University of Melbourne reveals that mothers carry 71 per cent of the household's mental load - the often-invisible cognitive labour that keeps homes running.

This includes managing school schedules, planning meals, organising activities, and overseeing budgets. Experts warn this emotional and mental toll significantly affects women's well-being.