As mentioned, parenthood comes with its fair share of struggles, especially for first-time parents. According to a 2024 survey by Owlet, 64% of respondents identified exhaustion as their biggest challenge. 48% admitted to feeling overwhelmed, while 32% said they were anxious.
However, as expected, the sleepless nights were the most significant hurdle. 86% of respondents admitted to struggling to wake up as many as eight times a night to check on their child.
It is normal for parents to worry about their children's safety. However, some are in a constant state of anxiety. The survey noted that 40% of parents are concerned about their baby possibly contracting illnesses like respiratory diseases or passing away from SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
The incessant worries have made parenting stressful for some people, with 40% of them saying they “feel extremely on edge” when their baby gets sick.
But amidst those struggles are the joys of raising a human being. According to a 2023 survey by the Pew Research Center, 44% of people find parenting to be rewarding, and 58% have described their experience as enjoyable.
The survey also found that lower-income parents are more likely to say that parenting is rewarding ‘all the time’ compared to those in the middle and upper-income brackets.
Parenting isn’t for everybody, and some may find the mere idea to be dreadful. However, those who find fulfillment in it see the joy in the little things.
A 2024 survey revealed that 62% of women enjoyed motherhood for the morning cuddles, 57% loved their child’s spontaneous laughter, and 52% looked forward to their offspring developing new skills.
If you’re a parent yourself, we’d love to hear from you. Do you share the same sentiments as these folks who shared their experiences online? Feel free to give your insights in the comments below!
