Have you ever felt like you’re the one remembering everything, planning everything, holding everything?

You’re not imagining it. The mental load of co-parenting is real, and it’s often completely invisible.

What is the mental load?

It’s the behind-the-scenes effort that keeps everything running smoothly for your child. And in many co-parenting setups, that load isn’t evenly shared.

You’re the one who: – Keeps track of school emails and homework deadlines – Buys the birthday presents and remembers the class trip money – Prepares your child emotionally for handovers – Tiptoes around tension to keep the peace – Feels solely responsible for holding it all together

That’s not just logistics. That’s labour and it can leave you burnt out.

Why it’s not ‘just how things are’

So many co-parents (especially mothers) have been conditioned to believe this is simply the price of being a “good” parent.

But carrying the full mental and emotional load isn’t sustainable. It creates resentment, stress, and often guilt, none of which help you or your child.

Let’s be clear: you shouldn’t have to manage both parenting and emotional project management alone.

What can help?

1. Naming it
   Sometimes just putting a name to the load you’re carrying is a relief. You’re not overreacting. You’re not ‘controlling.’ You’re just overloaded.
2. Rebalancing your energy
   You may not be able to get your co-parent to share the load, but you can redistribute your emotional energy. Start with boundaries. Small ones. Like not replying to late-night texts. Or saying no to last-minute changes.
3. Getting support
   You’re not meant to do this alone. And you shouldn’t have to. That’s why we created The Co-Parent Way — to give you a space where you’re seen, supported, and resourced.

Ready to feel less alone?

The mental load is real. And it’s heavy. But with the right support, you can stop carrying it in silence.

💛 Download our free emotional load resources: Seeing the Bigger Picture + Managing Strong Emotions,  or join the programme to go deeper.