A conversation with Dr Jodi Richardson on the Well, Hello Anxiety podcast
Some days you have nothing left to give. What happens when you’re struggling yourself and people still need you and expect things from you?
Parenting through anxiety, burnout, or emotional exhaustion is one of the hardest things you can do. You want to show up for your family and children, to be patient, playful, and present, sometimes it can feel like you have like nothing left.
I recently joined Dr Jodi Richardson on her Well, Hello Anxiety podcast for an honest conversation about what it means to parent when your own mental health is suffering. Together, we explored how to navigate those moments of guilt, overwhelm, and self-doubt with more compassion and grace.
Why Self-Compassion Comes First
When you’re struggling, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you should be coping better. I see this often in my counselling room, people at breaking point, struggling to keep up with all the demands and feeling like they’re failing. Like they’re inadequate and ‘not good enough’. Shame and guilt only make things harder. One of the things I help them work though is self-compassion. Self-compassion isn’t indulgent; it’s essential. Learning to speak kindly to yourself helps you model that same emotional honesty and acceptance for your children. To learn more, check out Kristen Neff’s work or watch her popular TED talk.
How to Talk About Emotions Without Oversharing
Many parents worry about burdening their kids with their emotions. The goal isn’t to share every detail; it’s to name what’s happening in a way that feels safe and clear. Simple phrases like “I’m feeling a bit stressed right now, so I’m going to take a few deep breaths” show your children that emotions are normal and manageable. You’re being vulnerable with them and role modelling health coping strategies.
The Power of Vulnerability in Parenting
Parents often think need to protect their kids from seeing them struggle. Healthy vulnerability actually builds trust and connection. When your child sees you acknowledge your feelings and take care of yourself, it gives them permission to do the same.
Why is resting so hard?
In our chat, I spoke about the quiet fantasy many parents have during burnout, that a minor accident or illness might finally give them the rest they crave. It’s not about wanting harm, it’s a signal that your body and mind are desperate for pause, care, and support. Recognising that need is the first step toward recovery. You don’t need to wait to feel that bad before you rest. Resting isn’t lazy or bad parenting.
Start Small
You don’t have to overhaul your entire life to feel better. Start small. Choose one honest conversation, one boundary, or one act of self-kindness. Parenting from a place of grace means accepting that you’re human and that’s more than enough.
Listen to the episode
From Guilt to Grace: Parenting When Your Mental Health Is Suffering
with Dr Jodi Richardson and Marie Vakakis
Links and Resources:
- Learn more about my practice and resources at The Therapy Hub: https://thetherapyhub.com.au/
- This Complex Life Podcast: Listen to my long-form conversations on relationships, mental health, and navigating life
