Physical/Mental Health of Employed Parents Stretched

Parental Stress Is a Public Health Concern, US Surgeon General Says

The U.S. Surgeon General this week issued a public health advisory for Parents Under Pressure, saying they are experiencing record amounts of stress as many juggle work and child care responsibilities.

Mothers and fathers now work more hours than they did four decades ago—while also spending significantly more time on primary child care, according to the advisory.

The advisory comes as other data finds that working parents are struggling and looking for better support from their employers. Many industry experts say that better benefits can help, including mental health resources; child care programs and stipends; and paid parental and family leave. Read more on CNN Health and Society for Human Resource Management, August 2024.

Priorities for employee benefits are shifting in 2025

A quarter of employers (25%) also prioritize plans for new benefits services and solutions for employees next year, up from about 18% last year. Regardless, the survey shows that mental wellness support is still an important component of an employer’s healthcare strategy, with 97% of employers offering it this year and 100% expected to include it in their employee benefits offerings by 2027. For those employees who are caring for kids or older adults, a family care benefit can improve mental health, through expert support. Read more on Human Resource Executive, August 2024.

U.S. caregivers face worsening of their own health challenges

Your employees are parents and have elderly parents who depend on them—therefore they are “caregivers.” CDC research shows caregivers have a 25.6% prevalence of lifetime depression compared to 18.6% for non-caregivers. Smoking rates are also higher among caregivers at 16.6% versus 11.7% for non-caregivers. As the CDC report states, "Strategies for supporting caregivers are available, and integrating these with existing programs to address mental health and chronic diseases among this population might improve caregiver well-being." Offering a family care benefit can lower your healthcare costs as your employee caregivers are better supported. Read more on Medical Press, August 2024.

Good Morning America discusses family and elder care in America

11 million [Americans] are caught in the "panini" of caring for both children and elderly relatives. As one caregiver shared, "it's the most profound role we have in life, and it's incredibly costly and stressful." Currently, families pay more for childcare than in-state college tuition in every state. By offering comprehensive caregiving support, employers can ease this burden and demonstrate their commitment to their workforce. Watch more on Good Morning America, September 2024.

Ways & Wane solves family care challenges for busy professionals

73% of your employees are caring for kids or older adults.

Offered as an employer-paid benefit, we solve eldercare and childcare challenges, no matter where employees live. Reach out for information at [email protected]