Mental Health Awareness Month: Mothers say ‘mental load’ of parenting is leading to burnout

May 8, 2026 - 20:13

With Mother's Day just around the corner, a growing number of women are breaking their silence about the hidden weight of motherhood. They are calling it the "mental load" -- the endless to-do list that runs inside a parent's head, from scheduling doctor appointments and managing school permissions to remembering to buy birthday gifts and restock the pantry. For many, this invisible labor is leading to serious burnout.

Melissa Hummelt, a licensed mental health counselor with BetterHelp, recently discussed the issue, highlighting the loneliness and guilt that often accompany the feeling of trying to do it all. She noted that mothers frequently feel overwhelmed not just by the physical tasks of parenting, but by the constant responsibility of anticipating every family need. This pressure can leave them exhausted and isolated, even when surrounded by their loved ones.

Experts say the key to easing this burden is open communication and setting boundaries. Instead of trying to be a perfect parent, mothers are encouraged to ask for help and delegate tasks more clearly. As Mental Health Awareness Month continues, the conversation is shifting from simply surviving the daily grind to finding sustainable ways to protect a mother's well-being.