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Sounds Like Therapy
You Can’t Have It All
If you've ever felt like the pressure of "having it all" is more than you can handle, you're not alone. The Surgeon General of America, Dr. Vivek Murthy, recently released an Advisory on the Mental Health and Well-Being of Parents, that confirms what many of us already know—parental stress is at an all-time high. But where are the solutions? In this episode, Jessica and Andrea dive deep into the factors that have led to this overwhelming stress, from societal expectations and financial pressures to the constant barrage of technology and the ever-present mental health crisis.
We’re not just here to vent—though there’s plenty to be frustrated about. We're talking about the real need for systemic change, the kind that goes beyond just acknowledging the problem. Together, we share our own struggles with trying to "have it all" and the sacrifices we've made along the way.
Takeaways
- Parents are experiencing high levels of stress, and the Surgeon General's report highlights the widespread nature of this issue.
- There is a need for systemic solutions to address the challenges faced by parents, rather than just pointing out the problems.
- Societal expectations, financial pressures, technology, and the mental health crisis are contributing factors to the stress experienced by parents.
- Attempting to 'have it all' - the career, marriage, kids, home, body, etc. - at the same time is leading to feelings of failure and burnout.
- Women often face challenges in balancing their personal and professional lives, and may feel pressure to sacrifice one for the other.
- It is important to redefine 'having it all' and prioritize self-care and leisure.
- Surrendering control and asking for help can alleviate stress and create a more balanced life.
- Finding balance may require making difficult choices and reevaluating priorities.
It's time to surrender the idea of perfection, prioritize self-care, and embrace the downtime we all desperately need. Join us as we challenge the status quo and discuss what it really takes to create a more balanced, fulfilling life in the face of relentless societal pressure.
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Honest Women is the podcast for every woman juggling the demands of modern life (while trying to keep her shit together) and finding that it’s all just a little more difficult than she thought it would be. Your hosts, Andrea Burkly and Jessica Hutchison, are two very real mental health professionals who are taking honest conversations from inside their offices to the outside world.
Disclaimer: Please note while this podcast features two therapists, and may feel very therapeutic, this is not therapy! Please be entertained, and know that through our creative content, we are not providing mental health care. No diagnosis. No treatment. No medical advice. Just creative content. Please seek appropriate mental health support in the real world.
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