Recent studies highlighted by the U.S. Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association (APA) show that while parental stress is a widespread issue, “41 percent of parents say that most days they are so stressed they cannot function and 48 percent say that most days their stress is completely overwhelming compared to other adults.”

The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Mental Health & Well-Being of Parents stated that “stressors related to child caregiving can also disproportionately burden some parents and caregivers, notably those with fewer resources and those who experience economic, social, political, and cultural marginalization.”

However, neither of these reports specifically mentions that African American parents experience an even greater weight when it comes to parenting. This additional strain of toxic stress is not just a product of general parental responsibilities but is significantly intensified by systemic racism, socioeconomic disparities, and cultural challenges. Long-term stress can turn toxic affecting your physical and mental health, brain development, immune system, and behavior.

This article explores the unique stressors that African American parents face and discusses strategies for alleviation and support.

“41% of parents say that most days they are so stressed they cannot function…”

— The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Mental Health & Well-Being of Parents

Identifying Stressors: What Challenges Do Parents Face?

I Can’t Keep Up

According to the Surgeon General’s report, the rising cost of child care is a major stressor for parents. “For example, in the last decade, childcare prices have grown by approximately 26 percent in the U.S.” and providing for basic needs like food adds to parents’ stress. “Further, one-in-four U.S. parents said there have been times in the past year when they did not have enough money for basic needs (i.e., food for their family or to pay their rent or mortgage), and a similar share said they have struggled to pay for the health care and child care their family needed (24 percent and 20 percent, respectively).”

There’s Never Enough Time

Parents are working longer hours today and that means their children are in childcare longer as well. This stress is exacerbated when a parent has to care for an aging parent.

Will my Child Be Okay?

The United States is experiencing a youth mental health crisis and parents are feeling it. “Nearly three-in-four parents are extremely or somewhat worried that their child will struggle with anxiety or depression.” And children with special needs are growing. “In the U.S., nearly one in five children (ages 0-17 years) have a special health care need.”

What If This Happens To My Child?

Parents are concerned about their children’s safety. With the dangers of school shootings and abductions, this is at the top of parents’ minds. With firearms being the leading cause of death for children and teens, “school shootings, or the possibility of one, are a significant source of stress for nearly three-quarters of parents (74 percent).”

I Feel So Alone

Parents need help and this is where we need our village to raise the child. “65 percent of parents and guardians, and 77 percent of single parents, in particular, experienced loneliness”

How Can I Protect My Kid Online?

Parents are concerned about what and who their children might encounter in cyberspace. “A majority of parents of adolescents say they are somewhat, very, or extremely worried that their child’s use of social media could lead to problems with anxiety or depression (53 percent), lower self-esteem (54 percent), being harassed or bullied by others (54 percent), feeling pressured to act a certain way (59 percent), and exposure to explicit content (71 percent).”

Will They Make It?

With all of the technological advancements in today’s world, parents don’t know how to properly prepare their children about what to expect in life as they mature into adulthood.

Other stressors such as incarceration cause added stress on families. “One study found that a father’s recent incarceration increased the mother’s risk of experiencing major depressive symptoms and life dissatisfaction even after economic well-being and family functioning were controlled for.” Add in pregnancy and complications and the stressors become unbearable for women.

“Postpartum depressive symptoms affect approximately one-in-eight mothers, with a disproportionate impact on women of color, and can occur anytime in the first year after giving birth.” In addition, having a “history of mental health condition[s], the experience of racism and discrimination, poor social support, and extreme or traumatic stress, among other factors, can contribute to vulnerability during this period.”

Systemic Racism: How It Increases Stress for Black Parents

1. Anti-Black Bias: Black parents often face unfair treatment because of their race. This happens at work, school, or when getting healthcare, and it can make them feel frustrated, angry, and powerless.
2. Fear for Children’s Safety: Many Black parents are constantly worried about their children’s safety because of racial violence and unfair treatment by the police. This fear can make everyday life more stressful.
3. Educational Disparities: Often, schools attended by Black children don’t have enough funding or resources, which worries parents about whether their children can succeed in the future.

“66% of parents reported feeling consumed by worries regarding money compared to 39% of other adults in 2023.”

— The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Mental Health & Well-Being of Parents

Socioeconomic Disparities: How Money Issues Add to Stress

1. Financial Hardship: Many Black families struggle with not having enough money, which can make it hard to provide for basic needs and stable jobs. According to the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances, as of 2022, the median Black household’s wealth was $240,120 less than the median white household’s wealth. This gap has persisted for decades, despite some progress in recent years.  
2. Housing Insecurity: Black families are more at risk of losing their homes or being evicted, which adds a lot of stress.
3. Limited Access to Essential Services: Not having enough access to good healthcare or mental health services makes it harder for Black parents to deal with stress.

Cultural Factors: Balancing History and Expectations

1. Historical Trauma: The long history of slavery, segregation, and racism affects Black families today, causing ongoing stress and trauma. Research has shown that the historical trauma of slavery can manifest in various ways among African Americans, including increased rates of mental health issues, physical health disparities, and behavioral problems
2. Cultural Expectations: Black parents often face the challenge of keeping their cultural traditions while living in a society that may not fully accept them or offer equal chances.

Research Insights and What They Mean

• Increased Mental Health Issues: Black parents are more likely to have mental health problems like depression and anxiety, showing a need for better support and help.
• Effect on Children’s Development: Stress in parents can negatively affect how their children grow up emotionally and behave.
• Resilience and Coping: Despite many challenges, many Black parents find ways to cope and remain strong, showing great resilience.

The recent study by the APA highlighting the disproportionate stress levels among parents underscores the urgent need for systemic change and more research, especially for Black parents who not only navigate the typical challenges of parenthood but also contend with the compounded effects of systemic racism, economic disparities, and cultural pressures. This unique blend of stressors significantly impacts our mental health and our children’s development. Solutions mustn’t be one-size-fits-all but rather tailored to address the specific challenges faced by Black families.

Strengthening community networks, advocating for policy reforms, and ensuring that healthcare and social services are culturally sensitive are key steps toward alleviating this burden. By investing in these areas, they can provide Black parents with the support needed to foster resilient families and thriving communities. Ultimately, recognizing and actively addressing the root causes of stress in Black families is essential for building a more equitable society where all parents have the support needed to succeed.

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