The Silent Burnout: When Parenting Takes an Emotional Toll
The term “burnout” often brings to mind the relentless demands of the workplace. However, the invisible workload of parenting can be equally taxing on one’s mental well-being. According to a recent survey by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, an alarming 62% of parents feel burned out by their parenting responsibilities.
This burnout can lead to self-isolation, as exhausted parents may feel they lack the energy to maintain relationships outside their family unit. Two-thirds of parents reported feeling lonely due to the demands of parenthood, often on a regular basis.
“When we’re out of energy, we retreat,” explains Mercedes Samudio, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Shame-Proof Parenting.
But overcoming parental burnout is essential for both personal well-being and the health of family relationships. Here are three crucial steps to combat this invisible strain:
1. Seek Support and Connect
Talking about feelings of exhaustion and loneliness with trusted friends or family can provide much-needed support. Sam Carr, a professor at the University of Bath who studies loneliness, emphasizes the power of connection.
There is the potential for connection in loneliness. It provides the potential for us to have compassion for each other, for us to embrace each other’s vulnerability.
Sam Carr
Professor at University of Bath
Reaching out to others, even when it feels like an overwhelming task, can break the cycle of isolation and provide emotional nourishment.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
Don’t create to-do lists that exceed your energy levels. Mindlessly ticking off tasks will only amplify burnout. Samudio suggests writing down goals and reassessing them weekly to ensure they are feasible.
Avoid holding yourself accountable to an unrealistic schedule. Tailor your expectations to your current capacity, and don’t hesitate to adjust them as needed.
3. Prioritize Self-Care Moments
Incorporate activities into your routine that replenish you. Aliza Pressman, author of “The 5 Principles of Parenting,” suggests short meditation practices as a tool for emotional regulation.
Even if you can’t squeeze in a 20-minute meditation session daily, take advantage of small moments throughout the day. Reflect on your thoughts while brushing your teeth or walking to retrieve the mail. These mindful practices can help you cope with burnout and be more present for your children and work.
Parental burnout is a real and common challenge, but it doesn’t have to define the parenting experience. By actively seeking support, setting realistic expectations, and carving out moments of self-care, parents can combat burnout and cultivate a fulfilling and balanced life for themselves and their families.
Data sourced from: cnbc.com
