What Is the Mental Load?

Ever felt tired before the day even starts—not from doing things, but from thinking about all the things you need to do?
That’s the mental load.

So what does “mental load” mean?

It’s the invisible, nonstop brainwork behind everyday life.
It’s the planning, remembering, organizing, anticipating, and checking in that keeps everything running.

It’s not just:

• Doing the laundry
  …but remembering it needs to be done.

Not just:

• Taking the kids to school
  …but tracking their homework, lunches, events, and the missing shoe that’s still missing.

The mental load is that constant background noise in your head:
"What needs to happen next?"

Why does it matter?

Because it’s draining.
Carrying the mental load can lead to stress, burnout, resentment, and feeling like you’re “always on.”

And in many households, the mental load falls disproportionately on women—even when both partners work. That imbalance can strain relationships and leave people feeling undervalued.

Bottom line

The mental load is real, and it’s heavy.
Understanding it is the first step toward sharing it—and creating a more balanced, less stressful daily life.

If you want to know more, check out our video created by Dr Alexandra Barnett. In it she discussed the mental load, why it matters and strategies to help.