Dr. Murthy, a father of two, has a history of addressing public health threats, from the Zika virus to the opioid crisis. Now, he is prioritizing the mental health and well-being of parents, emphasizing the essential role of parenting for the health of both children and society. The advisory underscores the increased complexities parents face today, such as managing social media and concerns about youth mental health.
With parents juggling work and childcare responsibilities, the stress parents experience is overwhelming, as reported by the American Psychological Association. Dr. Murthy calls for policy changes, including financial support, paid parental leave, affordable childcare, mental health services, and community spaces for families. While these changes require governmental action, individuals can also make a difference by offering support and seeking help when needed.
