Being a parent is a challenging journey and when having to take on this role alone, the pressure becomes much greater. single parents not only have the responsibility to raise and educate their children, but also have to take care of financial, emotional and time difficulties. Understanding the causes of stress will help single parents identify problems early and find solutions to balance their lives, according to Marriage.
Financial pressure
Finance is the biggest source of stress for single parents when they have to support their family with just one source of income. worrying about housing, food, health care and education costs for children makes them have to do many things at the same time or increase working hours, leading to pressure and less time for children.
Difficulties in time management
single parents must simultaneously take on many roles such as taking care of children, working and managing the family. Getting things done by themselves can easily overwhelm and make them feel exhausted, when they no longer have time for themselves, leading to prolonged stress.
Feeling of social isolation
single parents often have little time to meet and communicate with others because they have to take care of their children alone. They are also easily judged or opposed by others, making them feel lonely and isolated. This condition makes them susceptible to mental stress and fatigue.
emotional burden
In addition to daily responsibilities, single parents also face complex emotions such as sadness, hurt due to divorce, separation or loss of partner. They both handle personal emotions and are a spiritual support for their children, easily leading to fatigue, psychological stress, even depression or anxiety disorder.
Pressure in making decisions
single parents must make all important decisions about their children themselves, from education, health to major changes such as moving or changing jobs. Taking full responsibility makes them susceptible to stress, anxiety, fear of making mistakes, and disorientation in their parenting roles.