Are You Burnt Out?

The heat of summer brings outdoor fun, more playdates and sports commitments, as well as parental burnout. We strive to give our children everything that we had as kids, and more, but at what expense and is that exactly what they want and need?

What is Parent Burnout?

There are four stages of parental burnout:

1. Experiencing physical and/or emotional exhaustion
2. Feeling disconnected from your children
3. Feeling overwhelmed as a parent
4. Feeling ashamed and/or not as good of a parent as you used to be

As parents we then find ourselves little time to take care of our own wellbeing. The research shows that over 60% of parents surveyed do not take time for their wellbeing. When we do take time to care for ourselves, there is a positive impact on our physical and mental health which then helps us managing the juggling act that is parenting. 

Addressing & Stopping Burnout

When you feel that you are stretched so tight that you may break, consider trying the following:

1. Be kind to yourself – Self-compassion boosts our mental health. It is also a great life lesson for our little ones to be kind to themselves. 
2. Self-care – I say it time and time again that when we prioritize self-care, we are less stressed, less critical and it fosters mental wellness. Self-care is not selfish; it is needed to provide the care you want for your family. 
3. Enjoy the little moments – The concept of self-care is viewed as indulgent, or special-occasion, like dinner out with friends, but it doesn’t have to be. Small, day-to-day moments are just as revitalizing to your wellbeing. Going for a short walk, reading an extra page of your book, or having another cup of tea are all examples of small day-to-day self-care. 
4.  Ask for help – We vent to our friends about parental burnout, but do we take them up on their offer for help? Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of good insight into the risk of you burning out. 

The more we take care of ourselves the better we can care and provide for our loved ones!

 

Becky Morrison is a Nurse Practitioner based out of Calgary who has specialized in mental health for over a decade. She is finally, after years of infertility, a mother of two busy little boys, and doting fur mom of her gentle giant, Stella. She is, and always will be, a strong advocate for mental wellness at all ages.