Being a parent is one of the most beautiful and challenging jobs you can have. Every phase of this journey brings new questions and difficult decisions.
However, open discussions about the challenges of being a parent are rare – especially when a parent or child is struggling or fighting an illness. As a result, parental burnout occurs more frequently.
One study compared a control group of parents of healthy children with a group of parents of chronically ill children. They found that 36% of the parents of sick children showed clinical signs of burnout. However, 20% of the control group also suffered from burnout.
However, these results should not be surprising given the burden of responsibility and social pressure on parents. A burned-out parent has less energy and less patience. It can be virtually impossible to regain balance without outside support and understanding.
In such moments, a helping hand can be found in parent support groups – not only professional ones, but also informal ones created by the guardians themselves.
Research results show that support groups help to develop and promote parenting skills, a sense of strength, a sense of belonging to a group, and even self-esteem.
As they say – there is power in the group. It is worth looking for and joining groups where we feel comfortable and can share our difficulties, fears, and also joys without fear. Parents sometimes think that they are bad parents if their child has problems. Consequently, their feelings of shame and embarrassment can prevent them from talking to other parents about their experiences. Furthermore, guardians may get the impression that only they are facing difficulties and that other families live simpler and more peaceful lives. The feeling that other parents have excellent relationships with their children and know what to do when their child is suffering, while only we are lost in the trials and tribulations of parenthood, can effectively weaken our well-being.
Therefore, a safe support group is a priceless experience worth participating in. Connecting with other imperfect parents reminds guardians that they are not alone and that other parents experience similar situations and challenges on a daily basis.
Lindström C., Aman J., Norberg A.L. (2010) Increased prevalence of burnout symptoms in parents of chronically ill children, Acta Paediatrica.
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