A mental health and wellness advocate, Oluwatunmise Oladapo-Kuku has highlighted self-awareness as a key factor in addressing the mental health challenges faced by women in today’s fast-paced world.
Speaking in an exclusive with Blacktalker against the backdrop of the 2025 International Women’s Day, the mindfulness coach emphasized that many women struggle with anxiety, self-doubt and societal pressure due to a lack of understanding of their own identity and values.
According to Oladapo-Kuku, there is a fundamental distinction between mental health challenges and mental illness. While the latter falls within the realm of medical conditions, daily mental health struggles are often linked to stressors that women encounter in their personal and professional lives.
“We are not high all the time, and we are not low all the time,” she stated, referencing Dr. Emmanuel Abayomi’s definition of mental health, which ties together thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
Women, she explained, are often expected to juggle multiple roles as nurturers, multitaskers, and caregivers. However, many find themselves on a continuous journey toward authenticity, frequently questioning their decisions regarding career, motherhood, and personal aspirations.
“Fear of not being a good mother, wife, or professional stems from a lack of self-awareness,” she noted. “The more a woman understands herself, the better equipped she is to handle these pressures.”
Oladapo-Kuku, who doubles as the author of a mini-memoir “Living Mindfully A Journey to Being” explained that despite common perceptions that women are more open about their emotions, many still feel unsafe discussing their struggles. She noted that cultural norms also discourage open conversations about personal difficulties among women.
“Even though women talk, meaningful conversations are rare. In many cultures, we have been told, ‘Not all problems should be aired in public,’ making it difficult to seek help,” she said.
She encouraged women to take proactive steps in managing their mental health by building supportive social networks, seeking professional counseling when necessary, and recognizing mental health care as essential as physical well-being.
On the role of government and communities in addressing mental health, the wellness advocate pointed to initiatives such as Zimbabwe’s “Elders’ Bench,” where older women provide guidance to younger ones. She also referenced efforts in Lagos State, where a Resilience Ministry has been established to address social challenges.
She called for structured community programmes where women can find support without fear of stigma. Additionally, she advocated workplace policies that support women’s mental health, citing her own experience working in an office that provided an on-site childcare facility.
“Having a crèche at my workplace significantly reduced my stress as a new mother. If similar policies were widely adopted, it would greatly improve mental well-being for working women,” she said.
Oladapo-Kuku urged women to prioritize their mental well-being.
“Cultivate the garden within. Your healing, strength, and authenticity begin inside you,” she added.
