Why do I feel guilty for needing a break?

This week on Sip & Stim, Toni and Kate talk caregiver burnout, mom guilt, parenting a child with autism, recognizing when you're running on empty, and why asking for help can feel so hard.

Burnout does not always look dramatic. Sometimes it looks like irritability, exhaustion, needing a few quiet minutes, or realizing you have been carrying more than you thought.

Toni and Kate get honest about recognizing their own triggers, why taking time for yourself can come with guilt, and the difference between burnout at work and burnout at home. At work, you may be able to shift responsibilities or change the demands. As a parent, you cannot exactly tag out.

They also talk about leaning on your partner and support system, checking in with each other honestly, navigating respite services, and continuing to advocate when the support your family needs is not easy to access.

If you have ever needed a break and immediately felt guilty for taking one, this conversation is for you.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Sip & Stim

01:50 The Firsts and Lasts of Parenting

03:06 What Made Us Cry This Week?

03:56 Going With the Flow as a Parent

06:39 Recognizing Caregiver Burnout

10:05 Mom Guilt and Taking a Break

11:47 Recognizing Your Own Burnout Triggers

16:27 Burnout in ABA vs. Parenting Burnout

18:32 Why Parents Can't Just Tag Out

21:04 Leaning on Your Support System

23:35 Respite Services and Advocating for Support

24:59 Final Thoughts

Watch, Listen and Follow:
Find Sip & Stim and all of our links at links.sipandstim.com.

Credits:
Hosts: Toni Toole and Kate Martin
Producer: Mike Axe
Editor: Derek Kedell
Theme Song From: Derek Martin