Suffocating Patriarchy in Traditional Middle & Upper Middle-Class Families in India

In traditional middle and upper-middle-class families, dominant male figures hold all the decision-making power. Meanwhile, the women of the household are expected to adhere strictly to established rules. Their roles are primarily limited to household duties, satisfying their husbands, caring for their in-laws, and child-rearing. Women often have no voice regarding their preferences, desires, or dreams.

Children in these families are treated differently based on their gender. Male children typically receive preferential treatment in various aspects of life. This early differentiation sets the stage for the continuation of patriarchal norms from a young age. 

This environment not only perpetuates gender inequality but also stifles open communication and authentic emotional connections among family members. As these children grow into adults, they often replicate the same patriarchal patterns of behaviour.

When a reasonably educated, ambitious middle-class woman marries into such a patriarchal setting, where women are expected to always comply with what is dictated to them, the consequences are severe and long-lasting. Some brave women choose to leave their marriages, while others silently succumb to the oppressive patriarchal structure.

Although the scenario in middle and upper-class families is gradually changing, there is still a long way to go before both genders are granted equal decision-making rights. 

Breaking free from this suffocating patriarchal framework is essential for fostering healthier relationships, promoting mutual respect, and nurturing emotional intelligence within the family unit. Such transformative change can only begin with a grassroots shift in mindset—a collective re-evaluation of traditional values in every Indian family. 

We need to encourage open dialogue and empower both men and women to share their perspectives. Families must cultivate an environment where equality thrives, enabling all members to pursue their dreams and aspirations without constraint.

Depression & Weight Management

Healing is not a linear process; it resembles the changing seasons—sometimes harsh, sometimes beautiful. What we embrace each day is crucial as we carve our path through darkness, one step at a time. 

During treatment for clinical depression, individuals are often prescribed antidepressants, which can lead to weight gain as a side effect. While these medications may help uplift mood temporarily or provide emotional control, they trigger increased hunger. This results in continuous eating and consuming large quantities of sugary and salty foods, giving a fleeting sense of comfort that momentarily masks the emotional pain. 

In the early stages of treatment, it may feel as though no amount of exercise or brisk walks can withstand the weight of your mood and cravings—they seem to battle against each other in a relentless struggle. 

While experiencing body shaming from those around you who may not understand what you are going through—you may find that your wardrobe feels increasingly confining, nudging you towards larger sizes. Trust me, this process is not easy. You may feel completely thrown off balance. Your most expensive clothes stop fitting you, and your waist does not have the beautiful curve it once had. 

It’s a painful reminder of a journey that is often misunderstood. Remember, you are not alone in this fight; each step you take is a testament to your strength and resilience.

Eventually, there comes a stage when your mental health professional begins to taper off certain doses of your antidepressants and guides you on a journey to lose the extra weight that you have gained. You may start to feel slightly more confident about your body as you lose weight, but you’re still battling your emotions and the urge to shop for a size bigger to fit comfortably without showing your bulges.

But hope is a cape that fits us all. It does not body shame any of us. It reminds us that we are all capable of growth and change, regardless of our size or shape. Embracing hope can help us navigate the ups and downs of our mental health journey with grace and resilience.