Experts Emphasize Importance of Self-Care for Parents to Prevent Burnout

Financial pressures, work demands, and limited support systems can lead to parental burnout, affecting both physical and mental health.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:23am

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A glowing neon outline of a parent and child embracing, their figures defined by vibrant, electric lines against a dark background, conceptually representing the energy and connection needed to prevent parental burnout.Neon-bright outlines of a parent and child illustrate the importance of self-care and connection in preventing parental burnout.Fresno Today

Mental health experts found in 2023 that one-third of parents reported high stress levels, which can affect their physical and mental health as well as household relationships. Experts say financial pressures, work demands, and limited support systems can lead to parental burnout. They encourage parents to prioritize self-care and identify ways to reduce stress, noting that small adjustments can make a difference.

Why it matters

The pressures of modern parenting, including the need for two incomes to maintain a standard of living, can take a significant toll on parents' mental and physical health. Addressing parental burnout is crucial for supporting families and ensuring children have healthy role models.

The details

A 2024 Gallup survey found 51% of working women in the United States reported feeling stressed, compared to 39% of men. Coraline Robinson, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, said economic changes have forced many parents to work more just to maintain stability. Melissa Morales, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, said the pressure often creates a sense of conflict for parents, with many feeling they are in a "constant tug of war" trying to find work-life balance. Robinson noted that many parents struggle to ask for help, feeling responsible for everything, which is unrealistic.

  • In 2023, mental health experts found that one-third of parents reported high stress levels.
  • A 2024 Gallup survey found 51% of working women in the United States reported feeling stressed, compared to 39% of men.

The players

Coraline Robinson

A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with Balance Treatment Center.

Melissa Morales

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Kaiser Permanente in Fresno.

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What they’re saying

“The standard of living is now it takes about two incomes, if not more, to approach the same standard of living that in the 70s could be afforded by one income. So in short, what that means is parents are working harder.”

— Coraline Robinson, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

“I think some working moms feel like they're in a constant tug of war, having to find that work-life balance.”

— Melissa Morales, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

What’s next

Experts emphasized that parents do not need to be perfect and should focus on taking things one day at a time. They encourage parents to prioritize self-care and identify ways to reduce stress, noting that small adjustments can make a difference.

The takeaway

Addressing parental burnout is crucial for supporting families and ensuring children have healthy role models. By prioritizing self-care and seeking support, parents can better manage the demands of modern parenting and maintain their physical and mental well-being.