How to Enjoy the Often Exhausting, Depressing Role of Parenthood
What scientists have to say about the demands of parenthood—and some advice based on research to make it a little easier to get through.
Judging from Huggies commercials, Gerber ads, and perhaps a select number of oddly giddy parents on the playground, there’s no more blissful experience than becoming a parent. One’s days are filled with the laughter of little children; the pride of school recitals; and the rapture of bake sales, soccer game victories, and family vacations.
However, many research studies—and an awful lot of parents if you ask them to be candid—paint another picture. While there’s certainly a lot of joy involved in parenthood, it is not unusual to also feel overwhelmed with negative feelings: anxiety, confusion, frustration, depression.
- Colicky Babies and Depressed Dads
- A New Look At Postpartum Depression
- How Stress Leads to Depression
Parenthood also puts a lot of pressure on a parents’ relationships, which can lead to more stress.
Take heart. If you’re feeling the downside of being a parent lately, know that you’re not alone. Parents all feel the weight of parenthood at some time or another—some more than others. Here we’ll go over what scientists has to say about the demands of parenthood and offer some advice based on research to
