If you’re a working parent who feels stretched thin, constantly exhausted, or emotionally drained, you are not alone. A new study published in the Journal of Pediatric Health Care reveals that burnout is affecting an overwhelming number of parents today. In fact, 65% of working parents in the U.S. reported feeling burned out.
This important research, led by Dr. Kate Sustersic Gawlik and colleagues at The Ohio State University, explores the realities of parental burnout, why it’s so common among working families, and what can be done to support those who are struggling.
Below are some key points from this study that all parents should know.
What Is Parental Burnout?
Parental burnout is not just stress—it’s a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that builds up when the demands of parenting and work feel relentless and never-ending. It can lead to a deep sense of hopelessness, disconnection from your children, and a feeling that you’re just going through the motions without the energy or joy you once had. Recent research by Mikolajczak et al. (2023) found that parental burnout is associated with increased risks of depression, sleep problems, and negative parenting behaviors, highlighting the serious impact it can have on both parents and children (Mikolajczak, M., Roskam, I., & Brianda, M. E., 2023, Clinical Psychological Science).
Who’s Most at Risk?
The study uncovered several significant risk factors that increase the likelihood of burnout. One of the strongest predictors was mental health: parents who experienced anxiety, depression, ADHD, or had a history of trauma were much more likely to report burnout.
The mental health of children also played a major role. Parents with children who had anxiety or ADHD—or even those who simply suspected their child was struggling emotionally—were significantly more likely to experience burnout themselves. The data also showed that mothers and parents with multiple children reported higher rates of burnout.
Burnout Impacts the Whole Family
Why does this matter? Because burnout doesn’t just affect parents—it has a ripple effect on families, particularly on children. The study found that parents experiencing burnout were more likely to yell, criticize, or even physically lash out at their children. These behaviors often intensified during high-stress periods, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
When parents are depleted, their ability to parent with patience and presence diminishes. Over time, this can lead to long-term emotional consequences for children.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
The good news is that there are steps you can take to protect your mental health and reduce burnout. The first step is recognizing the signs. If you often feel emotionally drained, disconnected from your children, or question whether you can keep going as a working parent, these could be important warning signals.
Addressing mental health—both your own and your child’s—can make a significant difference. Even if there’s no official diagnosis, your concern is valid. Reaching out for support is not only helpful for your child, but also for you.
What Helps: Practical Tools and Support
The study highlights a number of effective tools that help reduce burnout:
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Parent support groups to connect with others who understand
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Cognitive-behavioral stress programs that build resilience
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Flexible work arrangements to reduce daily pressure
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Parenting workshops and skill-building programs to increase confidence
Programs like The Reflective Parent Club here at Curious Neuron, which teach parents emotional coping and stress management skills, are proving effective for both parents and children while also giving them a supportive community to grow and share with. These tools aren’t about doing more—they’re about getting the support and structure you need as a parent.
Listen to my conversation with Daisy Dowling, author of Workparent.
I had the amazing opportunity of chatting with Daisy on The Reflective Parenting Podcast this week (available on Apple and Spotify). I met Daisy in Abu Dhabi when we were both invited to talk about parenting and well-being. During our conversation with Daisy on the podcast, she highlighted the importance of writing an “already done list” and doing something restorative for ourselves. We are stuck in a world of always be “on” and doing so much for those around us. We are always thinking of task that need to get done rather than realizing how much we have done. This is taxing on the brain and as many Curious Neuron parents know, this can dysregulate us and impact how we show up for our kids in moments of distress.
Listen to this episode on Apple Podcast or on Spotify!
If you are a parent really struggling to balance it all, try out our program, The Reflective Parent Club where you learn science-based strategies to help you manage your emotions and stress, connect with parents inside this closed community and meet with me every week to help you build your self-awareness and see real changing in your personal growth and parenting.
Watch this episode on YouTube
You’re Not Failing—You’re Carrying Too Much
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to remember that burnout is not a reflection of your ability as a parent. It’s a signal that you need and deserve more support.
This study is a wake-up call—not just for parents, but for healthcare providers, employers, and communities—to recognize burnout and create systems that better support working parents.
You’re not alone—and help is available.
