Parental burnout is something many parents quietly shoulder — deep exhaustion, emotional disconnection, loss of joy, and the painful sense of not being the parent they used to be or want to be. In this episode, we dive into what parental burnout truly is, how it develops, and why so many parents are struggling under the weight of modern expectations.
We explore:
✨ the difference between everyday parental stress and actual burnout
✨ the three core signs of parental burnout and how they unfold
✨ the ripple effects on wellbeing, partners, and children
✨ cultural pressures, perfectionism, and the “do-more, be-more” parenting ideal
✨ risk factors and why some parents are more vulnerable
✨ how burnout can quietly build even in loving, devoted parents
✨ and evidence-based ways to support recovery and reconnection
This is a compassionate, validating look at the real emotional load of parenting — and an important reminder that parenting was never meant to be done alone, without support, rest, or community.
If you’ve been feeling worn down, disconnected, or like something in your parenting experience has shifted in a way you can’t quite name… this episode will help you feel seen, understood, and less alone.
Host: Shannon Swales: Psychologist, writer, and midlife woman who’s walked through burnout and come out the other side. Shannon combines clinical wisdom with lived experience to support others navigating chronic stress, burnout, and big life transitions. Through gentle conversations and evidence-based insights, she helps women reconnect with themselves, reclaim their energy, and grow through what once felt like breaking points.
Guest: Dr. Katy Hill is a clinical psychologist with over 20 years' experience of working across a variety of different NHS and university psychology departments. She was the first UK clinical psychologist to qualify as a certified parental burnout practitioner with the Training Institute of Parental Burnout in 2022. As a mum of three herself, Dr. Katy is passionate about supporting parents to reduce their stress levels, manage difficult emotions and improve relationships with their children, and themselves. You can find her at www.drkatyhill.com or on Instagram @theparentalstresspsychologist.
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Disclaimer: This podcast does not create a therapist-client relationship with Shannon A Swales. The views expressed are general & not a substitute for personalised therapy. If in distress, seek professional help. Remember—you don’t have to face your struggles alone.
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