Women's Health Week - Looking after more than your physical health
July 2026
Women's Health Week is often a time to focus on physical wellbeing, encouraging women to prioritise health checks, healthy habits, and preventative care. But when a health crisis occurs unexpectedly, it can affect far more than the body. It can impact a person's confidence, relationships, work, identity, and sense of what the future holds.
Recently, one of our chaplains met a woman whose life had changed dramatically in the space of a few days. She was on holiday with her husband and was looking forward to a relaxing break. Instead, after suddenly collapsing, she found herself admitted to hospital and undergoing a series of cardiac investigations. Far from home and surrounded by uncertainty, she was struggling to come to terms with what was happening.
When the chaplain visited, she became emotional and asked her to stay. The physical health challenges she was facing were significant, but it was the emotional impact that seemed most overwhelming.
She was awaiting further tests and coming to terms with the significant changes her health condition would bring. She was also facing the reality that she would not be able to return to a career she loved. Within a very short time, her future looked completely different.
To make matters harder, her husband had returned home and she was now facing these decisions and challenges alone. Fear, uncertainty, grief, and loneliness had become constant companions. As they talked, the conversation was not focused on medical procedures or treatment plans. Instead, it centred on the human experience of loss and change.
They spoke about the grief that can accompany the loss of a dream, a role, a routine, or a future that once felt certain. They talked about the ups and downs that often accompany difficult news. Some days bring acceptance and hope. Other days bring fear and sadness. Both are a natural part of processing life's unexpected challenges.
The chaplain listened as she shared her worries and fears. Together they reflected on ways she could remain resilient through the uncertainty ahead and draw strength from those supporting her. They also spoke about the importance of trusting the healthcare team caring for her and taking each step one day at a time.
Sometimes people assume chaplains are there only to meet spiritual or religious needs. In reality, many conversations are simply about providing a safe space where people can speak openly about what they are experiencing.
During times of illness, people often need someone who will listen without judgement, acknowledge their fears, and remind them that they do not have to face difficult moments alone.
This Women's Health Week, it is worth remembering that health is about more than physical symptoms and medical treatment. Emotional and spiritual wellbeing are important parts of the picture too.
A diagnosis, hospital admission, or unexpected health event can affect how we see ourselves, our relationships, our work, and our plans for the future. Looking after our wellbeing means recognising these impacts and seeking support when we need it.
Whether that support comes from family, friends, healthcare professionals, chaplains, or community networks, meaningful connection can make a significant difference during difficult times.
Women's health is about caring for the whole person. And sometimes, one of the most important parts of that care is simply having someone who will sit, listen, and walk alongside us when life takes an unexpected turn.
For more information on Women's Health Week, visit: https://www.womenshealthweek.nz
SUPPORTER VOICES
“As a Staff Nurse working on a very busy medical ward, I found the services of a hospital chaplain to be absolutely essential to provide support, companionship and spiritual help at times of great vulnerability for patients and their families.”
Sue B