Unpacking the Invisible Load: Reflections on Our "On The Couch with Nova Health" Event
Reflections on Our "On The Couch with Nova Health" Event
Last week, Women in Business Wagga Wagga hosted an extraordinary Winter Evening, "On The Couch with Nova Health." It was an evening dedicated to tackling the very real, yet often unspoken, issues affecting women in business: the intersection of hormonal health, mental load and professional performance.
The atmosphere was incredibly warm and welcoming, thanks in part to the supportive team at the Wagga Civic Theatre, who helped create a comfortable and cosy environment perfect for connection and honest discussion.
Why Talk About the Unspoken?
In business school, no one teaches you how the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum recovery or menopause will truly impact your energy, focus and ability to "have it all together." This event was about removing the exhausting mask we often wear. We dove deep into topics that resonate with every professional woman, including:
The mental load that keeps us awake at 2 am.
How hormonal changes actually affect our work performance and productivity cycles.
The guilt of striving for career success AND being present for our families.
The reality of why "bouncing back" after having children isn't realistic.
Meet the Experts Who Shared Their Wisdom
We were honoured to have an incredible panel of local health professionals from Nova Health who shared their expertise so generously, guided by the excellent facilitation of Alana Higgins.
Our expert panellists included:
Dr. Trudi Beck (Director, Nova Health Co, GP Obstetrician & Lactation Consultant): Dr. Beck brought a holistic medical perspective, helping us understand the physiological realities behind women's experiences and how to assist women in flourishing throughout their lives.
Rachel Harmer (Psychologist and Founder of Illuminate Psychology Services): Rachel shared her passion for perinatal mental health and supporting women across all life stages, providing practical insights on managing issues like anxiety, depression, identity shifts and the mental health concerns related to peri/menopause.
Jenna Mooney (Women’s & Men’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, Nova Pelvic Health): Jenna addressed the critical yet often avoided subject of women's pelvic health, shedding light on the physical demands women face and how to advocate for this essential area of wellbeing.
The Takeaway: Vulnerability Meets Expertise
This was not about quick fixes; it was about fostering real understanding and providing practical support. The discussion centred on strategies like managing energy cycles, knowing when to have difficult professional conversations and even reframing hormonal awareness as a professional strength.
A huge thank you to Dr. Trudi Beck, Rachel Harmer and Jenna Mooney for their honesty and expertise, and to Alana Higgins for leading the conversation so beautifully. And a final thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to such an incredibly honest and supportive evening.
Remember, you are not alone in carrying this invisible load. By coming together and sharing expertise, we can create more supportive workplaces and careers for all women.