A Surgeon General’s Advisory is a public statement that calls the American people’s attention to an urgent public health issue and provides recommendations for how it should be addressed. Advisories are reserved for significant public health challenges that require the nation’s immediate awareness and action.
"Over the past decade, parents have been consistently more likely to report experiencing high levels of stress compared to other adults. In 2023, 33% of parents reported high levels of stress in the past month compared to 20% of other adults." *
Parenting comes with immense joy but also overwhelming stress and worry. The challenges faced by parents, including loneliness, workplace pressures, and mental health concerns, are often invisible yet impactful. Recognizing these issues as a public health concern is crucial. Parents need tangible support and understanding to navigate the complexities of raising children.
Amidst societal pressures and unrealistic expectations, there is a call for a fundamental shift in valuing parenting. Policies and programs should aim to make parenting sustainable by providing financial support, paid time off, affordable childcare, and access to mental health care. Community support and individual actions can also play a significant role in helping parents cope with the demands of raising children.
It's important to destigmatize asking for help and accepting support as acts of strength. Building a network of support can alleviate stress and create a sense of community among parents. Ultimately, prioritizing the well-being of parents and caregivers can tip the balance towards more joy in the rewarding journey of raising children.
The above post is a summary of the surgeon general's opinion guest essay originally printed in the New York Times, Aug 28, 2024.
Vivek H. Murthy is the surgeon general and vice admiral of the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. He was also the surgeon general in the Obama administration.
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