We’ve all been there. A birthday sneaks up. The school WhatsApp group is buzzing about teacher presents. Christmas lists keep getting longer. For many parents – especially mums – the act of gifting isn’t just joyful, it’s another responsibility quietly added to the already full “mental load”.
The Mental Load Explained
Sociologists use the term mental load to describe the invisible labour of keeping track of family needs, celebrations and special occasions. It’s not just the buying of the gift – it’s remembering the date, finding the right idea, budgeting, wrapping and often sending it across town or even overseas.
Why It Matters
This invisible work can feel small in the moment, but over time it adds up. It can leave parents feeling stretched, exhausted or even resentful, instead of being able to fully enjoy the celebration.
A New Way Forward
Here’s the good news: small shifts can make a big difference. Parents are increasingly leaning on simple digital tools that reduce the mental juggling act. One example is Okuru, meaning “to send”, which is an Australian-born gift card app that brings together hundreds of local and international brands into one place. With a few taps, you can choose a card, personalise it and send it instantly – whether to your child’s teacher, your best friend or family across the world.
Gift cards are currently available for Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, UK, India and Singapore.
Beyond Convenience: Teaching Our Kids Too
Choosing easier, more sustainable gifting options also teaches our children that being thoughtful doesn’t mean being overburdened. It models a healthier way of caring – for others and ourselves. Using tools like Okuru also helps support small businesses by giving families a way to shop local and still enjoy the ease of digital.
The truth is that gifting should feel good. It should connect us, not deplete us. By lightening the mental load, parents can reclaim the joy of giving – and be fully present in the moments that matter most. And if a little help from Okuru makes that possible, then maybe that’s the real gift.
Visit the Okuru website to find out more, and connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and LinkedIn
