Hello all. As a clinical psychologist and mom myself, I can confidently say this: if you’re a parent who feels perpetually exhausted, you’re definitely not alone. Whether your child is a baby, a preschooler, is school aged, a teen, or even a college student (wink, wink), being tired is part of the universal experience of being a mom.
It’s easy to think that being tired all the time means you’re doing something wrong. But in reality, it’s simply a sign that you’re fully invested in the endless demands of parenting. You’re the one who gets up in the middle of the night to soothe bad dreams, who answers a thousand questions a day, and who somehow finds time to be the finder of lost socks, the keeper of schedules, and the provider of snacks. No wonder you’re tired!
The truth is, being a mom means your mental load is always on high alert, whether you’re chasing a toddler, supporting a stressed-out teenager, or worrying about your young adult navigating life’s challenges. It’s completely normal to feel like you’re running on empty at times.
And while we often dream about having a quiet moment to ourselves (and maybe even finishing a hot cup of coffee), it’s important to acknowledge that feeling tired doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you care. You’re showing up, day after day, doing your best for your kids.
So, if you’re reading this while trying to catch a minute of rest, know that it’s okay to be tired. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. The exhaustion is a shared experience among moms everywhere, and it’s a testament to all the love, effort, and energy you pour into your family. You’re doing an amazing job, even if it doesn’t always feel like it. And remember: you deserve care and rest too, so take those moments for yourself whenever you can!
xoxo,
Dr. Marnee