The end of the school year and the transition to summer bring different types of mental load for parents. There is a shift in schedule, priorities, and what you’re thinking about each day, and there can be more to manage, especially for the default parent who usually takes care of everything. It’s a different type of stress, but it is stress nonetheless. There can be a wide variance in the load you carry, depending on your partner and other supports you have in place. We must acknowledge that the mental load is an invisible load yet a significant burden; it’s a labor of thinking, remembering, organizing, and planning that keeps the family and household running smoothly. It can all be overwhelming! Join me in today’s episode for a closer look.

Show Highlights:

The constant hum in your mind of all that needs to be done

The potential for contention between parents in remembering ALL the details (along with anxiety, depression, and disconnection)

Remember that two things can be true at the same time!

Partnership is essential in co-parenting and co-managing the household.

Examples of how a partner can step in to help in meaningful ways: taking over specific tasks, being emotionally present, and having a weekly time for an honest check-in with each other

Advice to moms and dads for communicating and validating each other

Setting boundaries, saying NO, letting go of some tasks, and asking for help

The importance of finding community, connection, and support groups

Key takeaways from Dr. Kat: “Acknowledge your feelings, state them aloud, and share them. Only then can you start to change.”

Resources:

Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov

Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services. 

You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms

Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.  

Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!

If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients!

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