Being a parent is hard work and ‘massively inconvenient.' Dr. Becky Kennedy offers 5 tips to help you cope

Modern parenting has become increasingly stressful with challenges such as insufficient time, financial constraints, lack of sleep, and managing social media pressures. The stress not only affects parents but can also impact children. A clinical psychologist specializing in parenting suggests that parents should prioritize their own well-being, akin to putting on an oxygen mask first before helping others.

Navigating parenting in today's tech-driven world, with smartphones and social media, has altered how much effort people expect to invest. Instant gratification has rewired people's expectations, creating a less tolerant mindset towards the natural stresses of child-rearing.

Parents are encouraged to manage their stress by adopting sturdy leadership instead of selflessness, setting boundaries, exercising self-compassion, and making efforts to repair rather than seeking perfection. Sharing feelings and seeking support can also aid parents in these challenges. These steps aim to alleviate stress and promote healthier family dynamics, while reminding parents of the importance of mental health in managing everyday parenting difficulties.