Mental health experts found in 2023 that one-third of parents reported high stress levels, with stress affecting both physical and mental health and household relationships. A 2024 Gallup survey found that 51% of working women in the United States reported feeling stressed, compared to 39% of men. Experts identify financial pressures, work demands, and limited support systems as key contributors to parental burnout.
Economic changes have forced many parents to work more just to maintain stability. According to a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Balance Treatment Center, the standard of living now requires about two incomes or more to approach the same standard of living that could be afforded by one income in the 70s. Balancing household responsibilities and work can be especially challenging, with some working mothers describing themselves as being in a constant tug of war trying to find work-life balance. Many parents struggle to ask for help, and a lack of connection and support can lead to negative emotions, including loneliness and depression.
Health experts encourage parents to prioritize self-care and identify ways to reduce stress. Small adjustments can make a difference—looking at what is causing the most stress and trying to minimize it can help. For example, if guilt about not spending enough time with children due to work demands is a stressor, parents can find special activities to do together. Experts emphasize that children benefit from seeing their parents healthy and experiencing joy. Mental health professionals stress that parents do not need to be perfect and should focus on taking things one day at a time.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://abc30.com/post/looking-importance-care-parents-prevent-burnout/18852925/