US Surgeon General Warns of Rising Stress Levels Among Parents, Urges Cultural and Policy Shifts

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the United States Surgeon General, has issued a new advisory warning that parenting pressures are reaching dangerously high levels, posing significant risks to the mental health of mothers and fathers across the country.

Murthy stated in the advisory released on Wednesday that, while parenting is one of the most rewarding roles, it has become increasingly stressful in today’s society.

Dr. Murthy, a father of two, described parenting as the “toughest and most rewarding” job he’s ever had. He did, however, point out that the stress that parents are experiencing today is being passed on to children, potentially harming families and communities across the nation.

The advisory cited alarming statistics: 41% of parents report feeling so stressed on most days that they can’t function, and 48% find their stress completely overwhelming, far exceeding the stress levels reported by adults. Murthy attributed the increased stress levels to modern challenges such as the pervasive influence of social media, a growing youth mental health crisis, and a “epidemic of loneliness” that affects both young people and their parents.

Murthy also pointed out that parents today are grappling with different challenges compared to previous generations. He stressed the need for policy changes and community programs to assist parents, such as paid family leave, affordable childcare, and mental health resources. Murthy also advocated for a cultural shift that recognizes parenting as valuable as paid work, urging society to support parents in openly discussing their challenges.

The advisory also underscored the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, noting that many parents now work longer hours while also dedicating more time to primary childcare. Murthy cautioned that this combination frequently sacrifices quality time with partners, sleep, and personal leisure, exacerbating stress levels.

TThe Surgeon General called for a national discussion about the value of parenting, stating that “raising children is sacred work” and that society should prioritize the health and well-being of those who care for future generations. He also suggested that employers, policymakers, community leaders, and healthcare providers take proactive steps to support parents and caregivers, such as increasing paid leave and flexible work schedules to providing mental health screenings and resources.

Dr. Murthy’s advisory comes after a series of public health warnings he has issued, including those about the impact of social media on youth mental health and the dangers of misinformation. His latest advisory aims to raise awareness of the often-overlooked mental health challenges that parents face, as well as to advocate for tangible support that goes beyond platitudes.

CNN, the Hill, and Axios contributed to this report.