Parenting feels harder than ever, and I want you to know—you’re not imagining it.
As a mom and as someone who works with so many parents every day, I see how the mental load of modern parenting leaves us feeling exhausted, guilty, and overwhelmed. It’s not bad parenting—it’s our dysregulated brains trying to manage family life in an overstimulating world.
In this episode, I’m unpacking why parenting feels so hard right now and what’s really driving the stress so many of us carry. From screen time to isolation to the unrealistic standards placed on mothers and fathers today, I’ll show you how these hidden stressors impact both you and your child.
Most importantly, I’ll share simple, calming strategies to reset your nervous system so you can parent with more patience, joy, and confidence.
Why does parenting feel so hard right now?
I hear this question from so many parents, and the truth is, modern parenting carries a mental load that previous generations didn’t face. You’re not failing—it’s the world we’re raising kids in today.
Here’s why parenting feels so heavy:
- Double-edged sword of screens: Helpful for quiet moments, but dysregulating for both adults and kids.
- Isolation from community: Unlike a generation ago, many parents don’t have neighbors, friends, or family to lean on.
- Unrealistic standards: Contradictory advice, social media pressure, and guilt about not doing “enough.”
- Sandwich generation stress: Working parents juggling their own children, younger siblings, and even aging parents.
Parenting today can feel like a full-time job without a break. And when your nervous system is stuck in survival mode, it’s harder to stay patient, present, and consistent.
Why do I lose my patience with my child so quickly?
When raising children today, it’s no wonder your nervous system slips into survival mode. Even the most loving parent can snap—it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means your brain is overwhelmed.
Here’s what happens inside your brain:
- Stress hormones flood your system with cortisol and adrenaline.
- Executive functioning shuts down, so calm responses feel impossible.
- Your child’s dysregulation mirrors back, and their meltdown triggers yours.
The truth? A dysregulated brain can’t parent a dysregulated child. Whether you’re navigating small children, a baby, or even young adults, the reason parenting feels so exhausting often comes back to your nervous system.
Giving yourself moments of quality time and noticing when you’re feeling overwhelmed is the first step to calm—for you and your child.
🗣️ “The key is pressing pause—step back, breathe, and reset before you respond. That’s how you break the cycle and bring more calm into family life.” – Dr. Roseann
What can I do when I feel completely overwhelmed as a parent?
Parenting is hard, and most parents hit moments where the stress feels immobilizing. You’re not failing—you just need to calm your own nervous system first.
Try these small resets when raising kids feels too heavy:
- Breathe intentionally: Use 4-7-8 breaths to steady your body.
- Shift your posture: Stand, stretch, or simply step away.
- Get into nature: Even a quick walk can soothe your stress.
- Use simple techniques: humming, tapping, or cold water on your neck.
- Pause before responding: Don’t go in hot.
One moment of calm can change the whole direction of family life.
Want to stay calm when your child pushes every button?
Become an Dysregulation Insider VIP and get the FREE Regulation Rescue Kit—your step-by-step guide to stop oppositional behaviors without yelling or giving in.
Go to www.drroseann.com/newsletter and grab your kit today.
How can I break the cycle of stress in my family?
Parenting priorities often collide with real life—busy schedules, soccer practice, money worries, and the endless noise of raising kids. The good news is, small micro steps can shift the pattern.
Here’s where to start:
- Journal daily: Track what dysregulated you and what helped you reset.
- Notice your body: Tight chest, headaches, or sensitivity to light are signals.
- Choose healthier coping: Replace numbing with wine or scrolling with one calming reset.
- Model calm for your child: Your regulated nervous system teaches them what safety feels like.
Behavior is communication. When you calm your own brain first, you create the space for connection and growth in family life. Parenting is hard, but it doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means your nervous system needs care too.
Take one breath, one pause, one step. Over time, those moments ripple out into your whole family. Let’s calm the brain first, because that’s where real change begins.
Every child’s journey is different. That’s why cookie-cutter solutions don’t work.
Take the free Solution Matcher Quiz and get a customized path to support your child’s emotional and behavioral needs—no guessing, no fluff.
Start today at www.drroseann.com/help
If you’re ready for a simple way to bring more peace into family life, my Quick Calm is for you. This 7-day, science-backed mini-course gives you the essential tools to regulate your child’s nervous system.
FAQs
Why is parenting different now than in the past?
Parents today face pressures past generations didn’t—screens, packed schedules, financial stress, and less community support. It’s a lot for any nervous system to handle.
Why is modern parenting not working?
Sticker charts and punishments don’t calm a dysregulated brain. Kids need co-regulation, nervous system support, and connection—not just consequences.
At what age is parenting the hardest?
Every stage has challenges, but the hardest times often come when stress piles up—whether it’s toddler meltdowns, school pressures, or teen independence.
How do I stop feeling guilty as a parent?
So many parents feel guilty because of unrealistic standards. Remember, it’s not bad parenting—it’s a dysregulated brain.Focus on connection, not perfection.
