Is Parenting a Health Hazard?

Medically reviewed by Stephanie Cristofano, MD

In an unprecedented move, the Surgeon General of the United States sounded the alarm on an unexpected health crisis: parenting. Usually reserved for health risks like tobacco or alcohol, this 35-page report cites that parents’ stress has become an urgent public health issue.

According to data from the American Psychological Association, parents today are facing more stress than ever before.

Over half of parents say that their stress is “completely overwhelming.” One-third of parents with children under age 18 rate their stress an 8 or higher on a 10-point scale. Many parents also say they struggle to focus and are consumed with financial concerns.

Why are parents more stressed today?

There are several reasons why parents may be more stressed today than at any time in recent history, including:

• Childcare costs have risen 26% in the last decade. Families today spend 18-26% of their household income on childcare.
• Time demands, parents are working more, shouldering more work commitments and work-related stress as well as dedicating increased time caring for children.
• Mental health and safety concerns, with nearly 3 out of 4 parents worrying about their children struggling with anxiety and depression. In addition, 74% of parents are concerned about the possibility of school shootings.
• Technology and social media, which can monopolize children’s time, increasingly expose them to bullying or harassment and cause them to isolate themselves from friends and family and cause or worsen mental health problem
• Effects from COVID-19, which came with benefits such as remote work, also shuttered many childcare facilities, leading to fewer options for parents who are now going back into offices.
• Parental Loneliness, with over 65% of parents and guardians expressing social isolation and lack of social support.

All these stressors may be affecting those who are considering parenthood. Many people are waiting until their 30s to have children, if at all, and the fertility rate in the U.S. is at an all-time low.

How can parents handle stress?

While the issue of parental stress is complex, there are ways that parents can manage their stress and improve their health on an individual level. Psychologists suggest a few approaches:

• Connect with family and friends, specifically nurture connections with other parents and caregivers to establish and foster a supportive environment

• Offload small stressors by delegating or tapping into your community resources—for instance, having your kids help with chores or organizing a carpool with other parents to weekly activities.

• Stop saying “should,” which can feel like undue pressure, and instead reframe thoughts with a more balanced and realistic perspective.
• Take small breaks, even if it is just five minutes, to breathe and relax.
• Find joy in small victories, like your kids hitting key milestones or learning something new.
• Recognize the signs of mental health challenges and reach out to seek help when needed.

If you or someone you know is struggling with stress or mental health challenges, remember that you are not alone. WMCHealth is one of New York State’s leading providers of behavioral health services, with specialists in areas such as women’s and children’s mental health. Our dedicated team is here to support you and your family. Don’t hesitate to reach out—contact our specialists today to get the help you need.