If There’s One Lesson from COVID, It’s That the Modern ‘Village’ Approach Falls Short

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We’ve all heard the saying, “It takes a village,” especially when it comes to raising kids. In ancient times, communities truly banded together to nurture their young, sharing responsibilities and pooling resources to ensure a higher survival rate. After all, navigating life alone can be incredibly challenging.

However, today’s parents often find themselves isolated in their homes, surrounded solely by their immediate families and countless distractions. Unlike in the past, where friends and family lived nearby to lend a hand, many parents now struggle for hours, or even days, without any adult interaction. While the internet offers a way to connect, the anonymity it provides can lead to negativity and a lack of community support.

The COVID-19 pandemic has starkly illuminated how inadequate the modern support system is for parents. After enduring quarantine, prolonged isolation, and witnessing a tragic loss of life, it has become glaringly obvious: contemporary parents face a daunting lack of support.

According to Mental Health America, serious suicidal thoughts among American adults have increased by four percent since 2020. Over the last year, more than a million additional adults have been diagnosed with mental health issues, totaling over 47 million—around 19% of the U.S. adult population. Alarmingly, the American Hospital Association reports that 70% of parents and caregivers have experienced significant mental health symptoms, with up to 50% having contemplated suicide, making them eight times more likely to do so than non-parents.

These statistics underscore the overwhelming challenges faced by parents juggling work, childcare, and health concerns during a pandemic. We urgently need a mental health system that offers real support and accessible resources, along with affordable childcare options. It’s not enough to know we’re not alone in our struggles; we need tangible help—immediately.

This article was originally published on Jan. 24, 2022.

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In summary, the challenges faced by modern parents have been starkly highlighted by the pandemic. The need for a supportive community and effective mental health resources has never been more urgent, as many find themselves overwhelmed and isolated.