LEVEL UP PARENTING

Why Do I Feel So Drained Around My Kids?

Author Dr. Jason Selk Dr. Jason Selk
KEY SUMMARY
Research links burnout to perfectionist tendencies and high societal expectations, leading to emotional detachment and feelings of inadequacy. Factors such as constant decision-making, lack of alone time, and emotional labor contribute to parental fatigue. Strategies to combat burnout include prioritizing self-care, setting realistic expectations, building a support system, practicing mindful parenting, and using journaling techniques. By taking small, intentional steps, parents can restore their well-being and create a more balanced, fulfilling parenting experience.

Ever wondered why spending time with your kids leaves you feeling utterly exhausted?

Parenting is incredibly rewarding, yet it can be one of the most mentally and emotionally demanding experiences. The constant demands, decision fatigue, and societal pressures to be a "perfect parent" can significantly impact your energy and well-being. If you're feeling drained, you're not alone—parental burnout is real and more common than you might think.

Understanding Parental Burnout

Parental burnout isn't merely about feeling tired; it's a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Research indicates that parents who experience burnout often feel emotionally detached from their children and struggle with feelings of inadequacy.[BMC Public Health]

Why Parenting Feels So Draining

  1. Constant Decision-Making: Daily choices, from meal planning to managing tantrums, lead to decision fatigue, leaving you mentally exhausted.
  2. Lack of Alone Time: Parents often have little to no time for themselves, making it hard to recharge.
  3. Emotional Labor: Managing your child's emotions while keeping your own in check can be overwhelming.
  4. High Expectations: Internal and external pressures to be a "perfect" parent can contribute to burnout.[Ohio State University]

How to Recharge and Reclaim Your Energy

It's essential to take proactive steps to prevent burnout and create a more balanced parenting experience.

1. Prioritize Self-Care

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Implementing aself-care routine can help restore your energy and mental clarity.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

No one is a perfect parent. Accepting that you will make mistakes and focusing on "good enough" parenting can relieve some of the stress.

3. Build a Support System

Having a network of fellow parents to talk to can make a world of difference. Sharing struggles and strategies can provide relief.

4. Implement Mindful Parenting

Practicing mindfulness can help you be more present and reduce stress. Learn more aboutbecoming a more present parent.

5. Use a Journaling Routine

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process emotions and reduce stress. Check outprompted journaling to support mental wellness.

Final Thoughts

Feeling drained around your kids doesn't mean you're a bad parent—it means you're human. Recognizing the signs of burnout and taking small steps to care for yourself will not only benefit you but also create a healthier environment for your children.

Want a simple, science-backed way to restore your mental well-being?Sign up here and start making real changes today.

References

  1. Roskam, I., Raes, M. E., Mikolajczak, M. (2018). Parental Burnout: When Exhausted Parents Break Down. Clinical Psychological Science.
  2. American Psychological Association. (2021).The impact of parental burnout.
  3. Ohio State University College of Nursing. (2024).Study: Pressure to be “perfect” causing burnout for parents, mental health concerns.
Dr. Jason Selk

Written By Dr. Jason Selk

Co-Founder, Level Up Game Plan

Dr. Jason Selk is a renowned mental performance coach and author, specializing in mental toughness and high-performance training. As the Director of Mental Training for the St. Louis Cardinals, he helped the team win two World Series titles. Dr. Selk's mission with Level Up Game Plan is to equip parents with practical tools to improve mental health and family well-being.

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