Do you often find yourself worrying about other people?
Checking they're OK. Thinking ahead. Trying to prevent problems before they happen.
Perhaps you are the person friends turn to in a crisis. The one who remembers birthdays, follows up after difficult conversations and notices when something isn't quite right.
You may even take pride in being caring and dependable.
Yet carrying responsibility for everyone else can become exhausting.
Many women I work with describe feeling as though they are constantly scanning the emotional horizon. They are thinking about ageing parents, partners, children, friends and colleagues. Their minds rarely get the opportunity to rest.
Over time, this can create anxiety, overwhelm and a sense of being permanently "on duty".
What is often overlooked is that this pattern does not usually emerge by accident.
Many women learned early in life to be responsible. Perhaps they became the peacemaker in the family. Perhaps they learned to anticipate other people's needs. Perhaps being helpful became a way of feeling valued, safe or connected.
As adults, these qualities can become strengths. They can also become burdens.
The question is not whether caring for others is a problem.
The question is whether there is enough space in your life to care for yourself too.
If you find yourself carrying everyone else's worries while neglecting your own needs, counselling can provide an opportunity to explore where this pattern began and whether it is still serving you today.