Prioritizing Parental Mental Health
The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, recently issued an urgent advisory on the mental health and well-being of parents, emphasizing the need for greater support for caregivers and families. This call to action recognizes the impact parents have on the health of their children and society, while also addressing the growing pressures they face. From financial concerns and safety worries to navigating the often-complex and sometimes hazardous world of technology and social media, modern parenting presents a unique set of challenges that demand attention. With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s especially important to highlight these issues and remind parents that they are not alone in their struggles.
According to The Department of Health and Human Services, parents are significantly more likely to experience high levels of stress compared to other adults, with 33% reporting times of “severe stress”, compared to 20% of non-parents. Prolonged stress not only affects parents’ mental health but can also have long-term consequences for their children.
Coping with Parenting Challenges
In the United States, approximately 63 million parents live with children under the age of 18, with countless others acting as primary caregivers. These individuals face significant demands, from juggling time and financial constraints to coping with isolation and cultural pressures. We spoke with LCSW, Jackie Day, with our OCH Gravette Clinic, to find out more about this pandemic, and learn ways for parents to cope with these high levels of stress. “I am hearing more patients who are parents say they feel they are “not good enough” which causes guilt, depression and self-blame. What kids need are parents who are able to function at their best selves rather than trying to be perfect. I tell my patients that by having a “good enough” mindset, this lifts a tremendous amount of stress and other distressing emotions. Remember: as parents, kids are blank slates that you write on every day. If you are criticizing yourself for “not being good enough”, they will pick up on this. Role modeling self-love and acceptance provides a strong foundation for rocky patches that are inevitable in your kids’ lives.”
It is important for parents to remember that “Good Enough Parenting” is a theory that was coined in the 1950’s by Developmental Pediatrician, Donald Winnicot, and continues to be helpful today. In today’s digital age, we’ve become so inundated with expectations of parenthood that echo the unrealistic of life in general – that somehow, perfection is possible. (Balis, 2021).
The Surgeon general advocates for transformative changes in policies, programs, and cultural norms to alleviate the stressors that burden parents. Key recommendations include expanding access to paid family leave, affordable childcare, reliable mental health care, and community initiatives that foster social connection.
Finding Support This Holiday Season
If you’re feeling the overwhelming weight of parenthood or experiencing stress in general, especially during this holiday season, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support. To connect with a professional like Jackie Day, you can schedule an appointment by calling 479-787-5221 or visiting ochonline.com/locations to find a mental healthcare provider near you. No referral is needed to see Jackie. She accepts most commercial insurance plans, as well as Medicare and Medicaid. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—help is just a call or click away.