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Provides support, advice, and local group connections for families of children with disabilities.
Information & advice
Parental burnout and emotional resilience
Caring for a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) can bring immense joy and deep connection – but it can also be exhausting at times, making it easy to put your own wellbeing last.
Over time, this can lead to what’s known as parental burnout – a feeling of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that goes beyond everyday tiredness.
You’re not alone in feeling this way – and with the right support and tools, it’s possible to build emotional resilience to support both you and your family.
What is parental burnout?
Parental burnout is more than feeling run down after a tough week. It’s a chronic state of stress that builds up when the demands of parenting feel relentless, and there’s little time or space to recover.
It can affect anyone. But if you’re a parent or carer of a child with SEND, the risk is often higher due to the unique and ongoing challenges involved.
Some people describe it as feeling like they’re “running on empty” or “holding everything together with string.” This is a sign that your cup is simply empty and needs refilling.
Common signs of parental burnout include:
- Feeling emotionally drained or detached
- Irritability or short temper, especially over small things
- Trouble sleeping or constant tiredness
- Feeling ineffective or doubting your ability to cope
- Resentment, guilt, or feeling “on edge” all the time
- Becoming physically unwell more often due to stress
Why it can feel challenging
If you’re supporting a child with SEND, you may find yourself navigating:
- Multiple appointments and assessments
- Advocating for your child’s rights in education, health or social care support
- Managing behavioural, emotional, or sensory needs
- Systems that feel complicated, delayed, or difficult to access
- Judgement or misunderstanding from others
This constant pressure can create a sense of being “always on,” with little time to pause or process. It’s no surprise that many in this position experience higher levels of stress, isolation, and exhaustion.
What is emotional resilience?
Emotional resilience is the ability to recover from stress, adapt to change, and keep going through difficult times. It doesn’t mean never feeling upset or overwhelmed – instead, it’s about finding ways to bounce back from those moments and regain your balance.
Resilience isn’t something you’re born with or without. It can grow over time, especially with the right support, habits, and a bit of kindness towards yourself.
Ways to build resilience
Give yourself permission to feel
It’s okay to feel tired, frustrated, or low. These emotions don’t make you a bad parent or carer – they make you human. Saying how you feel is a powerful first step.
Take small, regular breaks
Even five minutes to breathe, step outside, or enjoy a hot drink can help. Tiny moments of rest throughout the day can prevent stress from piling up.
Create boundaries where you can
Say ‘no’ when you need to. Let go of feeling guilt for not doing everything. Try to protect even small pockets of time that are just for you.
Connect with others who understand
Isolation can make burnout worse. Local SEND parent or carer groups, online communities, or peer support networks can offer understanding, encouragement, and ideas.
Ask for help – and accept it
You don’t have to do everything alone. Whether it’s a friend offering to help with childcare, or a support worker stepping in, accepting help is a strength, not a weakness.
Practise self-compassion
Talk to yourself as you would to a friend. Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge the incredible effort you put in every day and remind yourself that good enough really is enough.
Seek professional support if needed
If stress or burnout is affecting your mental health, speak to your GP or health visitor. You may be able to access talking therapies or carer-specific support through the NHS or local services.
Support available
Parental burnout is real. And if you’re caring for a child with SEND, you’re not alone in feeling this way. Support is out there. Small steps can help you feel stronger, steadier, and more able to face each day.
Kids family advice & support services
We have a range of services available to help parents and carers caring for a child with SEND – from parent carer forums and family groups to short breaks that give you and your child a chance to rest and recharge in a supportive environment.
Trusted organisations
Here are some trusted organisations offering help and guidance specifically for anyone supporting a child with SEND:
Family Fund
Provides grants and practical support for families raising disabled or seriously ill children.
Mind
Offers mental health information and signposting, including support for stress and burnout.
NHS Talking Therapies
Free mental health services in many areas; you can self-refer via the NHS website.