In the Philippines, many women strive to embody the traits of resilience and hard work, often at their own expense. This high-functioning persona hides a deeper reality of distress.
A recent personal account highlights this issue, revealing the absurdity of maintaining productivity even after a major surgery. Despite being in recovery, the urge to respond to work messages prevailed.
Cultural Expectations and Identity
For many Filipinas, particularly those in high-pressure roles or caring for families, being a reliable worker is a core part of their identity. This cultural pressure leads women to prioritize work and responsibilities over their own well-being.
Understanding High-Functioning Distress
Registered psychologist Elaine Rose S. Ferrer defines this phenomenon as 'high-functioning distress,' where individuals meet external demands while grappling with internal struggles. This state can lead to burnout.
It’s meeting expectations while having internal struggles. Sometimes, it becomes over-functioning—where productivity turns into a survival mechanism.
Elaine Rose S. Ferrer
Women often juggle multiple roles, which can amplify the pressure they face. The societal expectation to manage everything leaves little room for personal care.
The Cost of Endurance
The danger of this high-functioning demeanor is that it conceals the mental and emotional toll it takes. Symptoms of distress can manifest as irritability, fatigue, and emotional depletion, leading many to overlook their needs.
Just because someone is functioning doesn’t mean they are doing well.
Elaine Rose S. Ferrer
Many only seek help when they reach a breaking point, emphasizing the need for proactive self-care rather than reactive measures.
Encouraging Self-Compassion
Ferrer advocates for recognizing the need to pause and be kind to oneself. This perspective encourages women to prioritize their health alongside their responsibilities.
Be kind to yourself. Give yourself permission to pause.
Elaine Rose S. Ferrer
As society continues to judge high-functioning women, it is vital to understand the pressures they face and to support their well-being.